Chelsea line up bid for Tottenham star with Cole exit rumoured
Published:Ashley Cole’s future has become the point of much conjecture recently, with Roberto Di Matteo thought to be lining up a replacement for the full-back already.
Cole has been offered a one-year extension to his current Chelsea contract, but the rejection of that has put the likes of Real Madrid, PSG and Manchester United on red alert.
The England left-back, now 31, was hopeful of signing a longer-term contract with the Blues, and as such could be sold as early as January so as to maximise his value.
And Di Matteo would appear to have his potential replacement well-scouted, with a move for Tottenham defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto being mooted.
Once a figure of derision amongst the White Hart Lane crowd, the Cameroonian full-back has vastly improved to become a standout performer for Spurs.
At 28 years old, he is currently enjoying his peak years, and could welcome the opportunity to play regular Champions League football with the European champions.
Also, having previously outlined his motivation for playing football as monetary, rather than the love of the sport, Assou-Ekotto will be aware he can significantly improve his £40,000-a-week salary at Chelsea.
He has only 20 months to run on his current Spurs contract, and it is believed the North Londoners would cash in should he not agree a new deal this year.
A bid in the region of £10m would likely be enough to convince Spurs to do business, making Assou-Ekotto a more cost-effective addition than alternative target Leighton Baines.
As such, it would seem that Cole’s rumoured departure from Stamford Bridge would pave the way for Assou-Ekotto to link up with Di Matteo and co.
Close attention will be paid to either player’s contract situations in the coming months, but January switches for either certainly appear to be in prospect.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
