Chelsea: Petr Cech given permission to begin talks with interested clubs as exit looms

Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has been granted permission to leave the club at the end of the current season, according to the player's agent Viktor Kolar.

The Czech Republic stopper's agent has confirmed that the Blues have granted his client permission to open talks with interested parties despite being contracted to the club.

Cech has spent the entire season as Thibaut Courtois' deputy after being the number one for the better part of the decade, and he has now made it clear that he does not see himself doing the same for a second season. He is keen to play regular football for a top club and his comments have attracted interest from top clubs in the Premier League and Europe.

Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain were said to be leading the race for his signature, but his agent recently revealed that the Czech international was also in talks with Turkish side Besiktas.

It is unlikely that Jose Mourinho will let Cech join a direct rival in England, despite stating earlier in the season that he will let the 'keeper choose his next destination due to the loyalty and commitment shown to the club since his arrival in 2004.

But according to his agent, they can begin talks with any of the interested clubs, giving hope to Arsene Wenger, who is said to be keen on bringing in a top quality goalkeeper as they prepare to challenge Chelsea for the title next season.

"Petr has a valid contract with his current club, however, I can confirm that we have been permitted by Chelsea to negotiate with interested parties," Kolar told talkSPORT.

"Petr has confirmed his interest to play regularly at a top club," the Chelsea star's agent added.

Mourinho is reportedly already looking for alternatives, with relegated Queens Park Rangers stopper Robert Green said to top his list along with Norwich City's John Ruddy.