Speaking to GiveMeSport, journalist Pete O'Rourke has made a Leeds United transfer claim involving Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley.

The Lowdown: Whites 'best placed' to sign Barkley...

As per recent claims, the 27-year-old is a Whites transfer target ahead of the January as Bielsa eyes more options in the advanced positions.

Barkley has actually managed to impress Thomas Tuchel when called upon this season, with the German holding special praise last month, but that still hasn't been enough to earn him more playing time. The England international has only featured in a handful of matches so far over 2021/22, prompting him to be linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge.

Backing Leeds' interest, Fichajes reported that Bielsa and sporting director Victor Orta by extension are the 'best placed' side in the race to sign Barkley as they enter pole position for him.

The Latest: O'Rourke backs claim...

While he doesn't say if Leeds are winning the race, O'Rourke has made an interesting transfer claim involving the former Everton star and Bielsa.

As per his information, speaking to GiveMeSport, Barkley is the Whites manager's 'immediate target' ahead of the winter window. O'Rourke explained:

""Barkley is Bielsa's immediate target in the January transfer window if he can get one in."

The Verdict: Get it done?

The £110,000-per-week midfielder could feasibly revive his career at Elland Road and regain favour with Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate as the World Cup looms next year.

Leon Osman, Barkley's former teammate at Goodison Park, has called the player an ‘exceptional talent’, and we believe he has the ability to become a success at Leeds.

Compiling his numbers from last season, the 27-year-old averaged a consistent 1.6 key passes per 90 during his temporary stint at Aston Villa, with only Leeds star Raphinha bettering that number among Bielsa's squad over 2021/22 (WhoScored).

It's clear that Barkley is capable of turning it on when he's handed the chance, and Chelsea's forgotten man could be an astute purchase for Leeds in January.

In other news: Journalist makes Leeds managerial claim as Orta now eyes 'supernatural' serial winner, find out more here.