Ross Barkley: Chelsea sign midfielder from Everton for £15m

Midfielder Ross Barkley has clarified his #15m move from Everton to Chelsea as "unbelievable" and "a fresh start".

Barkley, that renders Everton after 13 years at Goodison Park, has not played for seven months due to a hamstring injury and had surgery in August.

"He is very young and has a great deal of room for advancement," said Chelsea manager Antonio Conte.

"He's a good prospect but in precisely the same time, it will be extremely important to comprehend, if the player signs, we must have enough patience to help him recover."

Barkley turned down a30m move to Stamford Bridge on transfer deadline day in August after rejecting a new deal at Everton.

However, together with his Goodison contract expiring in the summer, he has now moved for #15m less.

He will wear the number eight top at Chelsea - formerly worn by Frank Lampard and Oscar.

"To be given a new start at a new club like Chelsea, it's incredible for me," said Barkley, who left his Toffees debut in 2011.

Barkley combined Everton's academy as an 11-year-old in 2005 and played with 150 occasions from the Premier League, scoring 21 goals.

He has 22 caps for England and played with in the 2014 World Cup.

Analysis

BBC chief football writer Phil McNulty

Barkley's departure attracted a low-key end to a Goodison Park career that constantly had such high hopes but ends in disappointment and even a tinge of ill-feeling from several supporters - especially as Everton have lost a large chunk of a possible #30m fee they might have expected had never turned down a move in August.

Barkley now faces a vital phase when possible must finally be fulfilled. Previous Everton managers have failed to deliver consistency to his game, with Roberto Martinez attempting the arm round the shoulder along with Ronald Koeman the huge stick. Now it is Antonio Conte's turn.