Cole set for January exit after rejecting Chelsea deal – Tuesday’s Rumour Round-up
Ashley Cole could leave Chelsea in January after turning down the clubs offer of a one-year contract extension. The Blues have implemented a newly revamped contract policy and 31-year-old Cole doesn’t fall into the age bracket that would see him offered a long-term deal. Former Stamford Bridge chiefs Jose Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti are now monitoring the England international’s situation in West London with a view to signing him in the new year. Mourinho’s Real Madrid are in need of world class competition for Marcelo whilst Ancelotti would like Cole to play a major role in his continued revolution of mega-rich Paris Saint Germain. The ex-Arsenal defender earns £130,000-per-week and would expect any potential suitors to match or exceed that total if he was to leave Chelsea. ESPN
Sagna Inter-resting Italian giants – Inter Milan are lining up a bid to bring Bacary Sagna to the San Siro next summer despite the right backs ongoing contract talks with Arsenal. The France international, who is currently sidelined by a second broken leg in two years, voiced his dissatisfaction with the Gunners lack of trophies during his time at the club and Inter are said to be closely monitoring his situation. Sagna has two years left to run on his current deal at the Emirates Stadium and Arsene Wenger is confident the 29-year-old will commit his long-term future to the club. Inter have already made discreet enquiries but have been warned by Wenger that they will have to act now if they have any hope of signing Sagna. Daily Mirror
Toon leading the chase for Basel defender – Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew is watching FC Basel defender Aleksandar Dragovic as he prepares to strengthen his back four in January. Pardew failed in his attempts to sign Twente centre back Douglas during the summer transfer window, much to the frustrations of supporters, and has now turned his attentions to Dragovic. The highly talented 21-year-old has caught the attention of the Magpies’ scouts and that of Fiorentina and Stuttgart in recent times. It’s thought the Austrian international is tempted by a move to the Premier League putting the Tyneside club in pole position for his signature should he become available. talkSPORT
Walcott wants Arsenal stay – Theo Walcott has played down speculation that he wants to leave Arsenal and admits he wants to sign a new contract at the club. The England international is into the final year of his current deal and has been heavily linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium after talks broke down earlier this month. Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea are preparing to pounce in January when he is free to talk to other clubs but the 23-year-old insists he wants to stay in North London and is keen to resolve his future sooner rather than later. The Sun
