Demba Ba is currently the most coveted striker in the land. In 2011 only Robin Van Persie has scored more goals than the Senegalese striker and his performances this season have given Newcastle the chance for a top 7 finish.
The mood around St James’ Park, sorry, The Sports Direct Arena, is likely to deteriorate now though, with Ba heading off to the African Cup of Nations and a host of clubs ready to activate his reported £10million release clause. Harry Redknapp even said: “I think you’ll find its a lot less than that.”
The news that the release figure could be as little as £6million has alerted Everton, Liverpool, Manchester United and Spartak Moscow, who are all expected to test how little Ba could leave for.
The figure is artificially low of course. This is the Premiership and any striker who can routinely score at this level is relentlessly sought after. Stock rises and bids in excess of £12M are far more likely to be accurate. How could Mike Ashley resist?
Pardew already commented upon the eye catching success of Ba last week and whilst the Newcastle boss may not wish to sell, as proved in the case of Andy Carroll nobody is sacred.
The favourites for his signature, however, have emerged as Paris Saint-Germain who, bankrolled by middle eastern millions, will try to tie up Ligue 1 this season and become a major force in Europan football. Ba himself has admitted he would like to join the club he supported as a child.
He said: “I’ve always supported PSG. It’s a club that is enticing but it might be difficult in January.
My first goal is the African Cup of Nations then I want to continue playing well for Newcastle.”
Despite masses of interest a move in January is unlikely. Ba is happy at Newcastle. He enjoys the adulation of the supporters and realises that Newcastle took a chance on him and he owes them until the end of the season at least. By which time, Newcastle could be in Europe and the likes of PSG and Tottenham may have secured other targets.
There is also the ‘ticking time bomb’ of his knee to consider. He is on a structured deal at Newcastle with bonuses based on appearances so an injury in the next couple of months could scupper any chances of a move to a bigger club.
There is every chance he could stay at Newcastle for a few years yet, but if carries on scoring goals in 2012, like he has in 2011 I wouldn’t bank on it.
