Rumour: Chelsea FC in shock move for Hatem Ben Arfa
According to the latest reports, Chelsea FC are lining up a surprising move for former Premier League failure Hatem Ben Arfa as they seek attacking reinforcements.
Hatem Ben Arfa, remember him? Well, he may be exploding back into your life if the latest rumours have any grounding. Chelsea FC are apparently putting together a shock bid for the forward as the club approach what is set to be a busy summer transfer window.
The Times (subscription required) carry this story in an exclusive. The paper claims that Ben Arfa’s current spell with Nice has tempted Antonio Conte into affording him another chance in the Premier League.
"Ben Arfa is a more surprising target for Chelsea because he was last seen in England playing on loan at Hull City. He has since proved a revelation in France after joining Nice last summer."
Chelsea are desperate to secure some forwards, with the futures of all four of their current strikers in question and doubts surrounding several of the wingers’ ability to perform for a full campaign.
Radamel Falcao, Alexandre Pato and Loic Remy appear likely to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of this season, while Diego Costa may very well be tempted by a move back to Atletico Madrid.
As a result, this news regarding Ben Arfa will not inspire many Blues fans. The club have been linked with the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Antoine Griezmann, but it seems as though they are lacking the drawing power to capture them. The lack of Champions League football was always going to be a hurdle and it is certainly proving itself to be one.
Ben Arfa has undergone somewhat of a rebirth in Ligue 1. He has racked up 17 goals and 5 assists in 32 league games for Nice as the 29-year-old finally gets back on track.
The Frenchman arrived in England in 2010 with Newcastle United, but flattered to deceive during his stay here. In fact, last season saw the Toon loan him out to Hull City.
He has always been highly-touted and Ben Arfa is issuing a timely reminder of his talent at the moment. Having said that, his attitude may cause him to clash with Antonio Conte. The Italian is known to be firm in his dealings and the lack of commitment that Ben Arfa is often associated with may make this an unwise move.
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