Chelsea have made a positive move for Newcastle United star Demba Ba.
The Senegal international has been linked with a Toon exit for some time and it is believed that the Blues have asked to activate his £7million release clause.
Chelsea have been given permission to talk to Ba who has scored 29 Premier League goals in 54 appearances for the Magpies since joining from West Ham United in June 2011.
"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," a Newcastle club statement read.
"The club has given the player permission to speak to Chelsea FC and therefore he will not be included in the squad against Everton."
