Report: Chelsea plot Hatem Ben Arfa bid

Chelsea are reportedly planning to launch a bid for Newcastle United midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa in the summer.

The Blues were believed to be keen on signing the France international, 25, before he made his switch from Marseille to Tyneside permanent in January 2011.

According to The Sun, the Stamford Bridge outfit have now reignited their interest in the player and are willing to pay the Magpies £12m for his services at the end of the season.

Ben Arfa, who is currently out of action with a hamstring injury, has scored nine goals in 49 first-team appearances for Newcastle.