Cole chase begins as Ballack and Belletti join Chelsea exodus

THE Premier League’s biggest names are set to battle it out for Joe Cole’s signature this summer after it was confirmed yesterday that the England midfielder will leave Chelsea.

The 28-year-old’s future had been the subject of increasing speculation and the Blues announced yesterday that his seven years at the club will come to an end this month after the two parties failed to agree a new deal.

In a day of departures, it was revealed midfielder Michael Ballack and right-back Juliano Belletti are also leaving Stamford Bridge.