Newcastle United striker Demba Ba is just few steps away from becoming a Chelsea player.
The Blues, who are desperately in need of a striker, have made a formal offer for the player, and as expected have trigged his £7 million release clause which makes Newcastle virtually toothless while dealing with his transfer.
Chelsea are left with Fernando Torres as the club’s only recognized striker as Daniel Sturridge has joined Merseyside club Liverpool today.
Though Ba was not the prime target for the Londoners, but understanding that buying Atletico Madrid forward Radamel Falcao in the January transfer window is almost impossible, the club went for a cheaper yet excellent option elsewhere.
Demba Ba has a release clause of £7 million stipulated in his contract when he was signed from West Ham in 2011. The Senegal international has been in tremendous form this season, netting 13 goals in the Premier League so far.
He was linked with a move to several English clubs including Arsenal and Liverpool, but Chelsea pounced on the opportunity at the earliest.
A statement released from the Tyneside club read:
“Newcastle United can confirm that Chelsea Football Club has made an official offer for Demba Ba which has triggered the release clause in the player’s contract.
“The club has given the player permission to speak to Chelsea FC and therefore he will not be included in the squad for tonight’s game against Everton.”
Newcastle manager Alan Pardew wants to keep the striker at the club till the summer but knowing that he is powerless in this situation is seeking for a speedy solution.
The Magpies had offered him a new contract that would wipe away the release clause but the player’s demand of wage in the region of £80,000 proved to be an obstinate obstacle for the club.
Newcastle are interested in signing Marseille striker Loic Remy as a potential replacement and could make a move for him in coming days.
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
