• Premier League

Bony embraces Chelsea rumours

ESPN staff
November 14, 2012
Wilfried Bony would welcome a move to the Premier League © PA Photos
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Vitesse striker Wilfried Bony has welcomed speculation Chelsea could make a move for his services in the January transfer window.

Bony, 23, has made a significant impact in the Eredivisie since leaving Sparta Prague in January 2011, and has scored 12 goals in 11 appearances so far in the league this season.

Earlier this month, the player's agent, Francis Kacou, told Sky Sports: "There is interest in the player from the Premier League - Chelsea, Aston Villa included."

In an interview with Czech newspaper Pravo, the Ivory Coast international has confirmed he would relish the chance to move to Stamford Bridge.

"I can't tell you much about that, but if it's written that I am going there, that's a good thing, right?" he laughed. "If they want me, it would be an honour. I would like to join a club like that. I like English football and I'm not afraid to go there. Chelsea are a top club."

The Daily Mail reported on Wednesday that Chelsea sporting director Michael Emenalo paid a visit to Arnhem at the weekend to watch Vitesse's 0-0 draw with FC Twente.

Asked about a potential January move, Bony said: "We'll see what happens. For now, I want to focus on playing as well as possible with Vitesse. If there is interest in the winter and the clubs agree, why not?"

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is said to be friends with Vitesse counterpart Merab Jordania, and the Blues have sent a number of players to the club on loan in recent times, with Tomas Kalas, Gael Kakuta and Patrick van Aanholt all currently in Arnhem.

Bony added: "I know that Chelsea and Arnhem have a good relationship. Some of the boys from Chelsea, including Tomas, are here on loan. We have already spoken a few times."

Bony said he had not yet spoken to Ivory Coast team-mates Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou about the Blues but added: "If I needed to know something, they could definitely help me. They are down-to-earth guys."

For now, the forward is enjoying life in the Netherlands and is hoping the club can mount a challenge for the Eredivisie title.

"I'm glad Sparta allowed me to move on," he said. "The Dutch league suits me. I think Vitesse was the right choice - I stepped up a level, play regularly and score goals.

"Personally, I'm quite happy, but I'd prefer it if we were top of the table. We are third. We are quite successful."

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