Cole looks set to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
After eight years, three FA Cups, a Premier League, a Europa League and the Champions League in 2012, Ashley Cole looks set to leave Chelsea for pastures new.
The 33-year-old’s current contract with the Blues expires at the end of the season and after struggling with form and fitness in 2013/14, a new deal doesn’t look likely.
Despite his age Cole is still considered to be a top class left-back who could well feature for England at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and as such a number of teams from across Europe are showing interest in signing him on a free transfer.
According to the Mirror and the Daily Express, five different teams lead the chase for the defender, with three English giants in the hunt.
Here is an analysis of how Cole would fit into each side and how much they actually need him.
Liverpool
Positives – The Reds are about to enter the Champions League for the first time in five years next term and having won the tournament once already and with 106 appearances to date, Cole would help to make that transition easier.
The veteran is also one of the masters of the modern school of marauding full-backs and should fit well into Brendan Rodgers’ style.
Negatives – Cole’s age has proven a problem at times this campaign and after years of consistency, fitness issues have blighted the Englishman.
Therefore the Merseysiders’ tactics of relying on relentless energy and pressing high up the pitch could see the former Arsenal man caught out.
Read more Liverpool transfer news.
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