Ross Barkley for Aston Villa jogging with David Moyes in circular frame
Ross Barkley looked set for big things when he broke into Everton’s first team as a youngster.
The attacking midfielder went on to make nearly 200 appearances for the Toffees before moving on to Chelsea as he looked to enter the peak of his career.
However, things never worked out in West London, and while he has enjoyed a solid Premier League career, he has never hit his previous heights at his boyhood club.
While Everton have previously been linked to Barkley to no avail, they may now have an opportunity to bring the 31-year-old home.
Everton manager David Moyes smiles with his hands in his pockets
Credit: Imago
This article includes exclusive comment from former Everton scout Bryan King.
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Bryan King: David Moyes should look to sign Ross Barkley at Everton
David Moyes has made a habit of getting the best out of ageing players at the Toffees.
Now, Barkley could be the next player to follow this trend, according to Bryan King, who spoke exclusively to Goodison News.
The midfielder looks to be on the way out of Aston Villa after the shock decision to leave the midfielder out of their Europa League squad, and having only one year left on his contract.
Barkley was at Everton until 2018
He has since played for Chelsea, Nice, Luton Town, and now, Aston Villa
Barkley looks set to leave Aston Villa over the next year
Now, the former Everton scout has backed the Toffees to make a move for the former Chelsea star.
“I think the ideal move for Barkley would be back home to Everton,” King said.
“It was Moyes who first introduced him at Everton, and that would be a good way for him to end his career.
“I’m sure he’d be a great benefit to Everton, and I’m sure he still loves the club. I think it could be a decent move for him.
“If I were David Moyes, I’d be looking to try and resurrect his career.
“He’s had a good career, and you would imagine that he’s still got three or four years left.”
Can Ross Barkley still have an impact at Everton?
While Barkley might be out of favour at Aston Villa, the midfielder is still capable of some excellent performances.
According to Fotmob on 11 September, in the 2024/25 campaign, the 31-year-old was extremely impressive when he was on the pitch, particularly in attack.
Ross Barkley’s 2024/25 Premier League season Per 90 minutes
Goals 0.47
xG 0.28
Shots 2.53
Assists 0.16
Chances created 1.42
Successful dribbles 1.90
Barkley has multiple impressive stats
On top of this, the midfielder can still create multiple opportunities a match, which could make him a valuable asset under Moyes.
Hopefully, Everton will look to make a move for Barkley next summer, in what could be a potential bargain deal.
