Boss Starts Transfer Scramble For Bargain Goal-Machine

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has claimed that Newcastle’s in-form striker Demba Ba is available for “a lot less” than £10m, starting a January transfer scramble for his signature.

The imposing striker has been in sensational form for Newcastle this season scoring 15 goals so far this campaign. This has lead to interest from the likes of Tottenham, Liverpool and most recently Arsenal, who have all been linked with a move.

Spurs boss Redknapp revealed last week that Ba had a release clause in his contract, reported to be around £10m, which was seen as good value for a 26-year-old with Premier League experience.

However, the 64-year-old manager has now claimed that Ba’s release fee is in fact significantly lower than £10m, suggesting it could be as low as £5m. When asked about the reported £10m clause, Redknapp said:

‘I think you will find it is a lot less than that.’

Then asked if the fee was £7m, Redknapp added:

‘Even less than that.’

If accurate, this would no doubt lead to significant interest from Premier League clubs. Tottenham and Liverpool are on the look-out for a striker, while Arsenal are also thought to be keen on adding further attacking reinforcements following the on-loan arrival of Thierry Henry.

At £5m, Ba could turn out to be the buy of the January transfer window. Although Newcastle are thought to be acting quickly to try and re-negotiate the terms of the Senegal international’s contract in order to fend-off interest.