Chelsea left back Ashley Cole looks set leave Stamford Bridge in January as his contracts nears its end and boss Roberto Di Matteo can do nothing about it, as reported by the Daily Mirror.

Cole has youngster Ryan Bertrand pushing him for his place in the Chelsea squad and the Blues board are adamant that the older players can leave the club, with PSG and Real Madrid reportedly interested in acquiring the England defenders’ services.

“My recommendation and wish is that he stays. But, ultimately, the board makes the final ­decision on those issues.

“Of course Ashley could get offers in January, but that is the world of football and that’s how you live in this world, in this ­industry. Nobody knows what the future will hold.

“Ashley still has many years in front of him. He is a fit boy and can play in every game.

“He is definitely one of the best left-backs in the world.”