Rafa Benitez is hopeful of securing the signing of Newcastle United striker Demba Ba before Chelsea's FA Cup fixture against Southampton on Saturday.
Earlier on Wednesday, the European champions submitted a £7 million bid to Newcastle which triggered the release clause in theSenegal international's contract.
With Daniel Sturridge having already signed for Liverpool, Benitez has Fernando Torres as his only recognised first-team striker for his side's trip to St Mary's Stadium.