Report: Irons linked with shock Chelsea misfit

West Ham are being linked with a shock swoop to sign Ross Barkley.

Chelsea journalist Simon Phillips claims that the attacking midfielder, who came up through the ranks at Everton, is wanted by a clutch of clubs ahead of the transfer deadline.

Celtic are reported to have made an offer to sign him permanently but there is also reportedly interest from the Irons, as well as Brighton, Newcastle, Aston Villa and his old club Everton.

The attacking midfielder is said to be likely to leave the club this summer but we’d be very surprised if he did end up moving to the Hammers.

Of course, the Irons would like to sign a new attacking midfielder this summer after missing out on Jesse Lingard but Barkley has struggled for form in recent seasons.

He played just 14 times in all competitions for Chelsea last season and also struggled on loan at Aston Villa, where he contributed a combined four goals and assists in 24 games the season prior.