Report: Chelsea eye a move for 29-year old attacking midfielder

Hatem Ben Arfa2

Premier League giants Chelsea are keen on bolstering their attack with the signing of Nice star Hatem Ben Arfa, according to reports from the Times

Incoming Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is sure to strengthen his squad this summer and with the likes of Radamel Falcao, Eden Hazard, Loic Remy and Alexandre Pato all set to leave at the end of the season, bringing in a couple of attacking players will be a priority for the Italian national team manager.

Ben Arfa wanted by Chelsea

Names such as Graziano Pelle and Javier Pastore have been linked with a move to Chelsea over the past few weeks and now according to fresh rumors emerging out of England, it has been claimed that the Blues are currently considering a move for Nice star Hatem Ben Arfa.

Ben Arfa was unceremoniously released by Newcastle United last season but the Frenchman has managed to revive his career at Nice, scoring 18 goals in 36 appearances and the attacking midfielder is now one of the most sought after players in Europe.

With Ben Arfa’s contract with Nice set to expire at the end of the season, it is widely expected that the 29-year old will be leaving the Ligue 1 side and a number of top clubs are said to be currently interested.

Spanish giants Barcelona were believed to have established contact with Ben Arfa last week and now the Times claim that even Chelsea have joined in the race to sign the former Hull City flop.

Reports state that Conte has shortlisted Ben Arfa as one of his main targets and the Chelsea hierarchy is preparing a lucrative wage package to tempt him to join their side over Barcelona.