Chelsea to go for Barkley, Benteke as part of major January spending spree

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Chelsea are planning a major January spending spree as they target a big-name striker — and Everton’s Ross Barkley.

It is a clear sign from Stamford Bridge their approach will not be changed by the departure of technical director Michael Emenalo and is designed to show support for Antonio Conte.

Chelsea also still want Juventus left-back Alex Sandro after targeting him in the summer but may not be able to get him mid-season either — although that will not stop them from launching big money bids.

They also tried to sign Barkley in the summer and will face major competition from Tottenham, who still want the England midfielder themselves.

Everton are likely to sell the 23-year-old in the next window rather than risk losing him for nothing when his contract expires in the summer, and Chelsea’s interest will at least guarantee a big-money auction.

The champions also want a striker having failed to get Swansea's Fernando Llorente, who opted for Tottenham, in the summer as they want top-class back-up to, and competition for, Alvaro Morata.

That is seen as crucial to their chances of trying to challenge on several fronts as they look to defend their domestic title amid a difficult Champions League group campaign.

Conte is not convinced by Michy Batshuayi but does like his Belgium international team-mate, Crystal Palace frontman Christian Benteke.