Yet by Wednesday Chelsea had triggered the release clause in Ba's contract and Newcastle finally gave the 27-year-old permission to speak to the European Champions League holders.

CNN: January 3, 2013 -- Updated 1012 GMT (1812 HKT)

In the spring of 2012, he signed a long-term contract, albeit one that included a "release clause, " a fixed price for which the club would have to sell him.

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"Newcastle United can confirm that Chelsea Football Club has made an official offer for Demba Ba which has triggered the release clause in the player's contract, " the club's website reported.

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