Luton Town sign Ross Barkley on free transfer

Luton Town have signed former Everton and Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley on a free transfer.

The 29-year-old was a free agent after being released by Ligue 1 outfit Nice at the end of last season, and has now secured a return to the Premier League.

The length of the contract with the newly-promoted Hatters has not been confirmed, but Barkley will join up with his new teammates in time for their top-flight opener against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday.

"Why Luton? Going from the Conference to the Premier League is a great story and for me personally to be back in the Premier League, it's great motivation," he told the club's website.

"I'm still relatively young and over the last couple of years I've not played as much as I'd have liked.

Welcome to the Hatters, @RBarkley8! ✍️#COYH pic.twitter.com/vKwztBzuBG

— Luton Town FC (@LutonTown) August 9, 2023

"But I've reserved a lot of energy and looked after myself, so it's great to be here now as I've got a lot to show but I'm ready and feeling motivated."

Manager Rob Edwards added: "Ross brings loads of experience at the top level, has international experience and brings an x-factor.

"He gives us something different, he has that ability to make something out of nothing and we need that in the Premier League. He's got all the tools required to make a difference for us.

"It's really exciting for the football club. We want the fans to be excited and they should be about Ross's arrival."

Barkley, who will wear the number six shirt at Kenilworth Road, has more than 200 Premier League appearances to his name from past spells at Everton, Chelsea and Aston Villa.

During his time at Chelsea he won the the FA Cup, Europa League and FIFA Club World Cup, while he also boasts 33 England caps.