Some of the latest speculation from Sunday’s newspapers…
Everton midfielder Ross Barkley prefers a move to Tottenham over Chelsea, according to a couple of reports in Sunday’s newspapers.
Barkley turned down a deadline day move to Stamford Bridge, despite the Blues having a bid of around £30m accepted by Everton.
The Sunday Times suggests Antonio Conte will have his work cut out trying to convince Barkley to choose west London over north London, with the England midfielder still hoping Spurs will come in for him in January.
The Sunday Mirror also says Barkley “has his heart set” on joining Tottenham.
Diego Costa has been urged by Atletico Madrid to end his feud with Chelsea in order to make a January move more likely, the Mail on Sunday claims.
The Blues striker has been holed up in his Brazilian hometown of Lagarto and conducted a war of words with Chelsea boss Antonio Conte via media interviews, but Atletico are said to be hoping he will allow himself to be reintegrated at Stamford Bridge to get himself match fit.
The Mail on Sunday’s report suggests it might even include private and public apologies.
However, the Sunday Express believes that such a thawing of relations is unlikely – and that Chelsea could end up taking Costa to court.
It says the Premier League champions might sue their prized asset for up to £50m if he continues to refuse to return to the club, claiming breach of contract.
This post was last modified on 03/09/2017