World Football Gossip Roundup: Demba Ba to Chelsea, Another Ronaldo for Real

Truth be told, today's rumor mill doesn't stack up to its more illustrious ancestors.

No biggie. There are still a few juicy rumors out there, and I've got everything for you in one convenient place.

You probably remember the Demba Ba transfer rumors over the winter, which have now returned. You've probably also read about countless players being dubbed the "new Ronaldo." Today, there's one more.

Ready? Let's get started.

Demba Ba to Chelsea

Like I said, there was plenty of speculation over Demba Ba's future during the winter transfer window. The rumors intensified around a supposedly small buyout clause in the Senegalese forward's contract.

The rumors are back, and this time it's Chelsea who are being linked with Ba by Mail Online.

Real Madrid Chase "New Ronaldo"

The other big transfer rumor of the day involves Real Madrid, who supposedly have taken an interest in signing the latest "new Ronaldo."

This one is otherwise known as Douglas Baggio. He's 17, Brazilian and plays for Flamengo.

According to TalkSport, AC Milan and Napoli have also shown interest.

Ben Foster to Extend West Brom Stay?

In slightly less earth-shattering transfer news, the Mail Online reports that West Bromwich Albion want to sign England international goalkeeper Ben Foster permanently.

Foster has spent the season on loan at the Hawthorns from Birmingham.

The Blues are understood to want Foster off their wage bill, despite the fact he reportedly earns a reasonable £27,000 per week.

As for a transfer fee, Birmingham would reportedly want the same £4 million they spent on Foster in the first place.

Newcastle After Dutch Youngster?

According to the Newcastle Evening Chronicle's sources, Newcastle will soon hold talks with Groningen defender Virgil van Dijk.

The Chronicle says Newcastle have not placed a bid, but added Blackburn have also shown interest.

Van Dijk, 20, reportedly has a contract through 2015.

Reverse Psychology

Finally, The Mirror reports that Blackburn manager Steve Kean has used his vaunted motivational skills in an effort to hold onto wantaway midfielder Junior Hoilett.

Kean's strategy is reverse psychology. The conversation must have gone something like this.

"You see, Junior, you're only good enough to start here at Blackburn. You'll sit the bench everywhere else.

"Yay! You'll stay then, won't you?"

"You won't? Why not?"

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