Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley has been identified as a potential target for Newcastle United for this summer's transfer window.

The Magpies are on the cusp of being taken over by PCP Capital Partners, who are bankrolled by the Saudi Public Investment Fund.

According to The Telegraph, the Tyneside outfit are already planning for a managerial change and Rafael Benitez could return to the dugout to replace Steve Bruce this summer.

It is added that the Spaniard is already preparing his wishlist for the next transfer window and Barkley is one of the top players on his radar to bolster the midfield department.

Barkley has been in and out of the starting lineup for the Blues this term but he found form before the coronavirus shutdown with a goal against Liverpool followed by a couple of assists versus Everton.

Blues boss Frank Lampard is said to admire the Englishman's talents but it remains to be seen whether he would consider his sale, suppose the Magpies come up with a lucrative offer.