CHELSEA announced the signing of Everton midfielder Ross Barkley today, joining the Blues in a deal said to be worth around £15m

The Scouse midfielder has not made a single Premier League appearance this season after suffering a serious hamstring injury during the summer.

But he is said to be close to full fitness now, passing a medical at Stamford Bridge earlier this week to become Antonio Conte’s first signing of the January transfer window.

Barkley’s contract was set to expire at Goodison Park in June, leaving the Toffees little choice but to cash in on the want away play maker.

He penned a five-and-a-half-year deal with the Premier League champions and will wear the number 8

source daily