Across Europe, all big clubs are in pursuit of Hatem Ben Arfa who will be a free agent in the summer. After Milan and Liverpool being linked with the 29 year old a few weeks ago, Barcelona and Chelsea are the latest names to reportedly have shown interest in him.
The former Lyon star, who had failed at every step of his career to show the world what he is truly capable of, has finally stepped up his game this season with OGC Nice, notching up 18 goals and 5 assists. The Times claimed yesterday that Chelsea are reportedly keen on acquiring his signature to be an understudy to misfiring Eden Hazard. Chelsea are keeping tabs on Rennes wonderkid Dembele as well alongside Ben Arfa.
In the recent past, the Blues have acquired faded star names for a bargain and tried to revive their careers. Falcao and Pato have been two such acquisitions. However, unlike them, Ben Arfa is in sizzling form this season, helping Nice to a fifth place with two games to go.
Nou Camp calling
The Nice president recently said that he is aware of Barcelona’s interest in Ben Arfa, “[o]ne thing is for sure and that is that Ben Arfa and Barcelona have met, but nor the player nor the club have confirmed anything to me. If he went to Barcelona? I would be very happy if this transfer went through, it would be great for the player and our club. It would mean that Nice could brag about quality players in our squad like Ben Arfa” (via DiMarzio).
Barcelona are looking to increase their squad depth as they haven’t quite managed to replace Pedro. Ben Arfa could be the understudy to Neymar that Barcelona are looking for. However Ben Arfa has been used to playing the protagonist for the French side which he certainly won’t be for the Catalan giants.