Celtic are interested in signing Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley this summer, according to BBC journalist Fraser Fletcher.

The Lowdown: Barkley’s absence

In recent years, the 28-year-old has been largely absent from the Chelsea team at Stamford Bridge.

The former England international has played just 14 times for the Blues under current boss Thomas Tuchel, making a mere six appearances in the Premier League on the 48-year-old's watch.

With limited playing time on the cards in west London, Barkley has been linked with a number of moves away from Chelsea, having reportedly been offered to former clubs Everton and Aston Villa.

The Latest: Fletcher’s claim

Fletcher has shared an update on the interest in Barkley, name-dropping Celtic as one of the clubs in the race for the midfielder.

Taking to Twitter, the journalist claimed: “Celtic do have interest in Ross Barkley, I'm told he's been discussed. However, the Chelsea man is of interest to multiple clubs in PL and in Europe.

“Loan deal being sought by most parties. Barkley has been told he can leave this summer.”

The Verdict: Go get him

Having fallen out of contention at Chelsea, Barkley needs a lifeline elsewhere in order to revive his career. Therefore, a switch to the Premiership could be the perfect move for both him and Celtic.

During the 2021/22 season, the 28-year-old averaged 1.3 key passes and 1.2 dribbles per game in the Premier League (via WhoScored), often showing a desire to move the ball forward.

Tuchel has hailed Barkley for his commitment to the west London club and his performance in the last game of the 2021/22 season, despite a lack of game-time throughout the campaign.

Bagging a last-minute winner against Watford, the German said of the midfielder: "He behaved so well throughout the season and got a lot of difficult decisions against him, so I'm happy he could show his quality.

"He was excellent in the no.10, very dangerous, involved in every dangerous attack when he came on, so I'm happy when he scored."

Therefore, with such an established player available in the market this summer, Celtic should do all that they can to secure Barkley’s signature.