Everton are looking into the possibility of re-signing midfielder Ross Barkley this summer, with the Blues part of a fierce battle to bring him in from Chelsea.

The Lowdown: Barkley impresses in first spell

The Englishman spent eight years at Goodison Park between 2010 and 2018, bursting onto the scene as a prodigious young player and eventually becoming a key man.

Barkley made 179 appearances in total for Everton, registering 55 goal contributions (27 goals and 28 assists) and eventually earning a big-money move to Chelsea.

He has fallen out of Thomas Tuchel's plans completely, however, and with one year left on his current contract, he will likely be allowed to leave in the coming weeks.

The Latest: Everton eye up reunion

Taking to Twitter, journalist Simon Phillips mentioned Everton as possible suitors for Barkley this summer but they are far from alone in expressing an interest:

The Verdict: Could be a great move

While there would be a risk element to bringing Barkley back to Everton - he arguably isn't quite the player he was - it would still be worth it, given his talent.

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, speaking at the climax of last campaign, praised the 28-year-old's 'quality' and called him 'very dangerous' in the number 10 position.

Frank Lampard has also hailed his 'great quality' in the past and even called him 'first class', so he could be determined to get his man.

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It would also bring a much-needed feel-good factor to Goodison Park, with the fans sure to forget about his exit to Chelsea in 2018 and welcome back a former hero with open arms.

Whether or not a loan move or a permanent switch is in the offing remains unclear but the positives outweigh the negatives with Barkley, so Everton should do all they can to secure a summer reunion.