Ashley Cole
Ashley Cole

Liverpool are considering a move in signing Chelsea defender Ashley Cole at the end of the season, according to the Metro.

The England international's contract at Stamford Bridge runs down in the summer. Jose Mourinho and Chelsea have yet to hand the former Arsenal star a new deal to keep him at the west London club beyond this season.

Cole has dropped down the pecking order and lost his place to Cesar Azpilicueta under the former Real Madrid manager this campaign. He has started in 12 league games and without a new contract before the end of the current campaign; the 33-year-old can leave Chelsea on a free transfer this summer.

The report claims the Blues are unlikely to hand Cole a new deal, which can then allow him to leave the club on a free transfer at the end of the season. The left-back is reportedly interested in making the switch at Major League Soccer (MLS), but a prospect of Premier League action could make him change his decision.

Brendan Rodgers is keen on signing a left-back in the summer. Liverpool have Jose Enrique as the first choice left-back in the squad. However, injury to the Spaniard has seen the Northern Irishman field Jon Flanagan in the full-back position, against his preferred right-back slot.

The Merseyside club do not encourage signing older players. However, the former Swansea manager is interested in bringing Cole on a one-year deal to Anfield. He is believed to have made a special request to Liverpool's board in going against the Reds's transfer policy in landing Chelsea store.

Liverpool signed Kolo Toure from Manchester City on a free transfer last summer. The centre-back, 33, was also signed by the Reds after the club went against their policy of signing ageing players.

A similar move could be on the cards in signing Cole after the end of the season. However, Liverpool will not be allowed to enter a pre-contract negotiation with the defender as both the Reds and Chelsea belong to the same association.

Should Liverpool sign Cole, his addition to the squad could be vital for Rodgers's side as they seek Champions League action next season.

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