Barkley was firmly out of favour at Stamford Bridge under Thomas Tuchel and reached an agreement with Chelsea to terminate his contract on Monday.
Now a free agent, Barkley is an attractive prospect and can move outside the transfer window system.
He has been linked with Scottish giants Celtic and Rangers, and the interest from the pair is genuine.
Both clubs want to add Barkley to the ranks as they prepare for their respective Champions League campaigns.
Being involved in the group stage of the Champions League is a financial boost for both clubs and they feel Barkley is a realistic target.
A switch to Scotland would hand Barkley an opportunity to play regular first team football and look to get his career back on track.
It is unclear if Barkley would have a preference between the two Glasgow giants when it comes to his next club.
