RAFA BENITEZ is planning an audacious New Year’s swoop for Barcelona striker David Villa.
Chelsea’s interim boss will offer the Nou Camp giants £12million for the World Cup winner next month.
Benitez declared: “We are working hard to find the right players in January.”
The Blues’ move could spark a four-way battle with Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal when the transfer window opens. But Benitez believes the chance for Villa to play alongside his pal Fernando Torres will tip the balance in Chelsea’s favour.
Spaniard Villa has previously admitted: “Fernando and me get on well on and off the pitch. We complement each other and work well together.”
Villa, 31, is unhappy with the amount of time he has spent on the bench this season, despite being out for eight months this year with a broken leg.
Daniel Sturridge’s January move to Liverpool has weakened Chelsea’s striking options and made signing a proven goal-scorer a top priority.
Benitez would also consider a loan deal for Villa but Barca director of football Andoni Zubizaretta said: “It is important to remember Barcelona are a club that does not accept offers for star players in January.”
