Chelsea are looking to continue their summer rebuilding programme with the signing of Newcastle's French star Hatem Ben Arfa, according to the Daily Mail.
The Blues have splashed the cash to bring Eden Hazard and Marko Marin to Stamford Bridge, and Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is keen to bring in a number of his other transfer targets to build on their Champions League success.
Top of the list is French international Ben Arfa, who has flourished at Newcastle this season. The former-Marseille star is valued at £26m by the Magpies, but Chelsea are reportedly confident they can sign the Frenchman for around £18m.
The west London club recently confirmed the appointment of Roberto Di Matteo on a two-year contract, and the Italian has plenty of creative talent to supply his strikers. Marin and Hazard join Juan Mata, and the arrival of Ben Arfa would only serve to rejuvenate the midfield further, as Chelsea look to give Fernando Torres the best possible supply line next season.
The 25-year-old has three years remaining on his Newcastle contract and is a fan favourite on the Tyne, but could be tempted by the lure of Champions League football. And if Di Matteo lands the Frenchman, who is currently on international duty with France, it would take Chelsea's summer spending above £50m already this summer.
The Blues are also strongly linked with Porto striker Hulk, which would likely take their total outlay close to the £90m mark.
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