It’s been a busy day for the Chelsea fans here in the Transfer Tavern as reports suggest they have finally brought England international Ross Barkley to the club. Having seen a deadline day move to Stamford Bridge break down, Antonio Conte finally has his man at last. 

While it’s promising for the Blues in our bar to see Conte’s squad getting strengthened by the powers at be in west London at long last, not all too many of them reckon they know exactly where he’s going to play. Few would doubt Barkley’s ability when he’s in full form, though the attacking midfielder isn’t really an upgrade on what’s currently available to him at Cobham.

A slightly surprising addition, considering the strength Conte has in either attacking midfield or inside forward positions, surely fringe members of the squad at Chelsea will be wondering whether his arrival spells the end of their time at the club.

With that in mind, here’s a look at two players who must be considering their futures at Chelsea now.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek

Though the England international isn’t currently at Chelsea, many of our punters were hoping to see Ruben Loftus-Cheek handed a chance upon his return from his loan spell with Crystal Palace. Having impressed during his time at Selhurst Park, as well as his England debut, the Blues in our bar were eager to see him develop.

However, surely the arrival of Barkley spells an end to RLC. Playing a very similar position, Barkley is far more likely to back-up the likes of Willian, Pedro and Eden Hazard.

Kenedy

While Kenedy can also play at left-back, the signing of another attacker has surely signalled the end of his time with the club. Barkley can operate as a left-sided inside forward, the position in which the Brazilian largely backs up.

A move to Newcastle United has been touted for the player and surely Barkley’s imminent arrival has forced him out. A squad rotation player at the very best of times, Conte now has the room to allow him a Stamford Bridge exit at long last.