Chelsea winger Yossi Benayoun has revealed he is close to deciding where his future lies, with the Israeli on the brink of leave Stamford Bridge.

Benayoun spent last season on loan at Arsenal, but has returned to west London following the conclusion of the temporary deal.

The Blues have already released Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou and Jose Bosingwa following their Champions League victory, and Benayoun appears likely to go the same way.

Yossi Benayoun
Benayoun looks likely to leave Chelsea.

"I hope I will have some news about my future soon," he said.

Having already signed wingers Marko Marin and Eden Hazard ahead of the new season, Benayoun will find it tough going to break into a Chelsea side who are still to appoint a new manager following the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas in March.

Roberto Di Matteo did his hopes of becoming the permanent successor to Villas-Boas no harm when winning the FA Cup and Champions League double as interim boss.

Benayoun may feel that a fresh start under a new manager at Chelsea might be a safer option than moving on to the likes of West Ham United, whom the Israel international has been linked with a return to.

Despite scoring four goals in 10 starts in the Premier League for Arsenal, Benayoun was not retained by Arsene Wenger.

His only full season with Chelsea saw Benayoun net on his debut against Wigan Athletic, his only league goal during his two-year career at the club, where his opportunities have been few and far between.

West Ham have been linked with his services after their promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking after their relegation from the Championship.

Benayoun scored eight goals in two seasons at Upton Park and would be a welcome addition to a Hammers side who are preparing for a season back in the top flight.

The 32-year-old also spent three seasons at Liverpool, scoring 18 league goals at Anfield, and Benayoun will give a potential new club a wealth of Premier League experience.

Israel London