Newcastle United have granted Demba Ba permission to discuss terms with Chelsea over a move to Stamford Bridge.
Reports surfaced last week that the Blues were keen to sign the Senegal international, although further speculation had claimed that talks between both parties had fallen through.
However, the move appears to be back in the pipeline after the Magpies confirmed this afternoon that Chelsea have met the £7m release clause in the 27-year-old's contract.
"Newcastle United can confirm that Chelsea has made an official offer for Demba Ba which has triggered the release clause in the player's contract," read a statement on the club's official website.
"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 joined Newcastle in the summer of 2011 from West Ham United.
Liam Apicella
