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Southampton: Three immediate alternatives to James Maddison

By Chris Hughes

IPSWICH, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 22: James Maddison of Norwich City looks on during the Sky Bet Championship match between Ipswich Town and Norwich City at Portman Road on October 22, 2017 in Ipswich, England. (Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images)
IPSWICH, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 22: James Maddison of Norwich City looks on during the Sky Bet Championship match between Ipswich Town and Norwich City at Portman Road on October 22, 2017 in Ipswich, England. (Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images) /
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LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 28: Ross Barkley of Chelsea during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Chelsea and Newcastle United on January 28, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 28: Ross Barkley of Chelsea during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Chelsea and Newcastle United on January 28, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

Ross Barkley

A bit of an out-of-the-box shout I’ll admit, but you the more you think about it, the more a deal for Ross Barkley would make some sense.

The Englishman moved to Chelsea in January for £25 million from Everton, but was barely used by under-fire boss Antonio Conte, making just four appearances in all competitions.

Whether the Italian is still in charge come August or not, it’s not totally unreasonable to suggest that Barkley could move on this summer, albeit more likely on a temporary deal rather than a permanent departure.

Whilst Barkley is yet to really take that step from young prospect to quality midfielder, there’s no denying he possesses a wealth of talent and in the right set-up he could thrive and take his game to the next level.