Chelsea target Joaquin willing to go

Chelsea target Joaquin has admitted he is willing to leave Real Betis when the winter transfer window opens if it is in the best interests of the Spanish club.

The Spain international has been linked with the English Premiership leaders Chelsea and Betis president Manuel Ruiz de Lopera has already admitted he would sell Joaquin if the price is right.

“I will go if we are all in agreement; Chelsea, who are the side everyone is talking about, the club and me,” Joaquin is quoted as saying in Spanish newspaper Marca.

Joaquin was thought to be a target for Real Madrid in recent seasons but a move never materialised. The player only renewed his contract at Betis last season.

“I signed the contract to stay here, but if I have to leave then I will go and that’s that,” he said.

“I have always made it clear I don’t mind where I go, although as a footballer I want to win things and I will go if the president wants me to.”

Joaquin’s celebrations after setting up Betis’ equaliser in the Seville derby on Sunday saw him kiss the club badge on his shirt with extra emphasis, an action that some in Spain have interpreted was a farewell gesture to the Betis faithful.

Betis face Atletico Madrid tonight in the Ruiz de Lopera stadium.