Chelsea fans may be distraught by the recent selling of Juan Mata to Manchester United, but reports suggest that such was an initial step to chase the signature of Everton playmaker Ross Barkley.

The west Londoners are expected to collect £37 million from the Red Devils for the 2-time former player of the year, which will be used to lure Merseyside's rising star.

However, it is understood that the Blues will have to wait until the summer window opens, as acquiring Barkley this January would not be a smart move because he is still recuperating from a broken right toe.

Moreover, this move is seen as a part of Jose Mourinho's plans for the long-term since Chelsea are at the limit in having foreign over-21 players in their squad, which is seen as a major concern since mainstays like John Terry, Frank Lampard, and Ashley Cole are already at the twilight of their careers.

Finally, Everton might find it hard to resist once the Blues come calling along with their tons of cash, as was the case with Wayne Rooney, Joleon Lescott, and Jack Rodwell, among others.

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