Bruce set to launch second bid for 'unbelievable' player Callum Wilson wants us to sign - Report

Last year, The Chronicle reported that Steve Bruce made a bid to sign Ross Barkley on loan from Chelsea, stating that he put a pitch to Mike Ashley.

In the end, Aston Villa got in ahead of us to secure his signature on a season-long loan, but it looks like the 27-year-old is back on our radar this summer.

The Athletic now report that Bruce will reignite his interest in the former England international should he be made available - and it looks like he will be, with him surplus to requirements at Chelsea and highly unlikely to seal a permanent move to Villa after a stop-start spell in the Midlands.

Interestingly, we already know Callum Wilson's stance on Barkley, with him telling Sky Sports just a few months ago that he was a player who was "unbelievable" to play with during their time together with England and a player he wishes we signed last summer.

Here's a reminder of what Wilson had to say, revealing how he was "taken aback" by his ability:

“I was taken aback by Ross’ ability.

“Playing with him at training and at international level, for me as a striker, he’d be a great person to play with at club level – he’d help you score goals and things like that.

“I didn’t even realise he was going to go on loan from Chelsea, otherwise I would have said to (Steve) Bruce that you have to bring him up here!

“He is unbelievable.”

One to watch this summer? With us lacking drive in midfield and working on a tight budget, another loan move could be ideal IF Chelsea don't push for a permanent deal.