The Blues are ready to make a £20million bid that would see Barkley stay on loan at Merseyside to complete his football education, according to the People.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is ready to allow manager Andre Villas-Boas splash the cash on new talent in January.
Barkley is reportedly on Chelsea’s wanted list for the January transfer window.
The 17-year-old is also being targeted by the likes of Manchester United and Manchester City.