Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has said that he’s confident that the deal to take Demba Ba from St James’ Park to Stamford Bridge is ‘done’ and will allow the Magpies to move on as they prepare for life without him.
The Blues activated the forward’s release clause today and although there were teething problems during negotiations and also a medical to get through, it seems as though this one is set to go through…all we’re waiting for is Chelsea’s official confirmation to put the speculation to bed.
Pardew spoke of Ba, saying:
“It’s done. He will go to Chelsea with our blessing.
“He has done fantastic for us and it’s not a bad thing, all the uncertainty is now done and we can move on.”
This came ahead of Newcastle’s match against Everton after the club confirmed the bid and news that Ba would be omitted from the squad to play the Toffees:
“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.”
Ba has scored 13 Premier League goals this season and would be a sight for sore eyes judging by the performance of Fernando Torres against QPR tonight. The Spaniard once again disappointed in front of goal and his general performance was lacking in all areas, which is especially aggravating as this should have been an opportunity to add to his tally against one of the weaker sides in the league and show any incoming forwards that he’s the main man.
Unfortunately, for Chelsea and for Torres, he’s never been convincing enough to make you believe in him but at least he’s set to be challenged for his place.
As an aside, a forward probably isn’t all Chelsea needs and they may seek to add a midfielder to the squad during the winter window whilst Taison is also heavily linked with a move to west London after holding talks with the club previously.
