Who's Playing Who?

Photo: chelseafc.com

See what I did there? Hah… Anyway, Demba Ba has finally left Newcastle United, signing a three and a half year deal with the European champions. Sure, he’s not the highly coveted Radamel Falcao, but for a fee reportedly around the £7 million mark, Ba represents tremendous value.

Where else would you get a proven goal scorer at this level for that price? I know he’s injury-prone, but it seems like a great deal for Chelsea.

Delivering a parting blow to his previous club, Ba seemed to be already enjoying his new surroundings.

“This club is at another level, it isn’t West Ham or Newcastle,” Ba said. “They are both big clubs with a strong history, but Chelsea is Chelsea and you cannot compare. It will be easier with world-class players around, who make the football look so easy.”

Keep up to date with every move throughout the January window with our dedicated EPL transfer page

Meanwhile, Newcastle confirmed the signing of France international right-back Mathieu Debuchy, Lewis Holtby and Spurs reached a pre-contract agreement for the Summer, and experienced defender and free agent Tal Ben-Haim has joined QPR.

Elsewhere, Arsenal finally offloaded Marouane Chamakh… But only on loan to West Ham.

Finally, Fulham secured the services of highly-rated 19 year old midfielder Chris David from FC Twente. However, with two first names, it remains to be seen whether he can be trusted to deliver for his new club.