Both Rangers and Celtic hold a “genuine interest” in Ross Barkley, according to CBS Sports reporter Ben Jacobs.

The journalist states that, following Chelsea’s decision to terminate the 28-year-old’s contract, both Old Firm clubs will join a number of English Premier League teams in pursuing the player:

Ross Barkley has left Chelsea by mutual consent. There is genuine interest from Rangers and Celtic. Plenty of Premier League clubs have considered Barkley, too.

— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) August 29, 2022

There are a couple of reasons why Gers supporters should be sceptical about the club’s interest in Barkley. During his time at Chelsea, the midfielder was earning close to six figures a week so he would have to accept a serious reduction in salary if he were to move to Ibrox.

Secondly, manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst already has players such as Tom Lawrence, Malik Tillman and Ianis Hagi who are all very capable of playing as a no.10, which is Barkley’s best position.

With all that being said then, it would be a surprise if the England international did end up signing for the Light Blues, even though he is available on a free transfer.