Chelsea manager Antonio Conte talks on the phone – something he didn’t do on transfer deadline day (Getty)

Antonio Conte turning his phone off is the reason why Ross Barkley rejected a move to Chelsea, Joey Barton has claimed.

The Everton midfielder came close to joining the Premier League champions but on transfer deadline day opted to remain at Goodison Park.

The England international, who is currently out injured, explained afterwards his decision was based on wanting to be fully fit when he makes a decision about his future.

But it seems Conte may have also played a role. Following reports that the Chelsea manager doesn’t get directly involved in transfer deals, former Premier League star Barton claims Barkley’s representatives were unable to contact the Italian on deadline day, which put the midfielder off a deal.

‘I heard a really interesting thing about what happened with the Ross Barkley transfer. Conte turned his phone off and Barkley’s representatives were trying to contact him,’ said the former Newcastle and Man City player on talkSPORT.

Ross Barkley wanted some assurances before making the move (Getty)

‘He wanted to say “look, where am I going to play”, and Conte turned his phone off. That is why Barkley got cold feet and never signed.

‘He thought, “well, if the manager isn’t answering the phone to me he clearly doesn’t want me”, and that is why he went back to Everton.’

Reports suggest Chelsea could return for Barkley in January while Tottenham have also been linked with the 23-year-old.

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