The representatives of Newcastle striker Demba Ba will meet with Chelsea on Sunday evening, according to reports.

Ba has a £7.5million release clause in his contract which becomes active in January when the transfer window re-opens.

The striker has shown some excellent form this season and already has 13 goals to his name this term.

This has seen a host of clubs linked with a possible move, including Arsenal, Tottenham, QPR and French giants Paris Saint-Germain.

Now Chelsea are reported to have moved into pole position after Sky Sports sources confirmed talks were due to take place between Ba's representatives and the European champions.

Chelsea boss Rafael Benitez insisted he knew nothing of reports suggesting Newcastle striker Demba Ba was set for talks with Blues officials.

Asked after Chelsea's 2-1 win over Everton if he knew anything about the reports, Benitez said: "No, because we don't talk about this business, we had a very important game today."