Demba Ba to miss Everton game as Chelsea trigger release clause

Chelsea have today bid £7.5m for Newcastle United’s Demba Ba, breaking the clause in the Senegalese strikers contract, and will now miss tonight’s match against Everton.

The striker is headed to London for talks with the Chelsea hierarchy, and are expected to iron out the fine detail of his transfer in the next 24 hours.

Demba Ba’s release clause became active yesterday, and Newcastle had been expecting the Blues bid.

Chelsea are expected to confirm the sale of Daniel Sturridge to Liverpool, but won’t do so until another striker has arrived in his place.

The French-born forward signed for Newcastle from West Ham, who had been relegated, triggering a clause in his contract which allowed him to leave on a free-transfer.

Demba Ba is currently joint-second top goalscorer in the Premier League this season, with 13 goals so far, 3 less than Robin Van Persie who is leading the way.

Newcastle will be left with Papiss Cisse and Shola Ameobi as the only senior strikers should Ba agree terms successfully, and are actively seeking his replacement. Loic Remy is currently favourite to replace him.

I believe Demba Ba will outplay Fernando Torres, and become Chelsea’s first choice striker. Ba will also be used on the wings to help rotate the squad.

The Senegalese forward is extremely strong and could prove to be what Chelsea have been lacking in since Didier Drogba left at the end of the season. Demba Ba will be a great signing, at a bargain price, which I’m sure he will prove at Stamford Bridge.