Chelsea, City targeting un-settled David Villa

According to Mirror Football, Spanish forward David Villa is eyeing a move to Stamford Bridge in the January transfer season.

Villa is fed up with the lack of opportunities at Barcelona. The top goal scorer for Spain in the 2010 World Cup made just five La Liga starts for Barcelona this season. The reported rift between Lionel Messi in some matches, especially against Granada, may also have accelerated his desire to move from Nou Camp.

Victor Onate, David Villa’s agent, said about the potential transfer, “There is always rumour and speculation about David and his future because he is a great striker. His future is in the hands of Barcelona. We are aware of the speculation but he has a contract and it is always important to respect agreements.”

Juventus and Arsenal are also interested in signing the talented forward. But Chelsea appears to be in his top wish list, according to sources close to him. New Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez is also interested in signing him even though he has not expressed it in public. He said about the issue, “I don’t discuss these things. It’s important for any club to keep such things quiet. We will see.”

Villa has one and a half year left in his contract and Barcelona is expecting a transfer sum of around £12million. But for Chelsea, with their strict transfer policy of not offering more than one year deal for players who crossed 30, it would be difficult for a permanent transfer. So a loan deal might be possible in these circumstances.

Even Manchester City is reported to be interested in David Villa to boost the striking options available for Roberto Mancini.