Chelsea linked with Mendieta loan deal

Chelsea are reportedly near to agreeing a loan deal with Lazio for Gaizka Mendieta.

The Spanish World Cup star may move to Stamford Bridge as part of the deal to bring in fellow midfielder Dino Baggio.

According to the Daily Mail, Mendieta has been offered to the Blues on loan, with Lazio possibly paying half of his £60,000-a-week wages.

The Italian giants are keen to cut their massive wage bill, but have had to spurn interest from Barcelona due to a special clause in Mendieta's contract.

It states that a return to one of their Spanish rivals will necessitate a penalty payment to his former club Valencia.