Blues move has real appeal to Anelka

Bolton striker Nicolas Anelka looks ever more likely to leave the Reebok Stadium after admitting he would love a move to Chelsea.

The France forward signed a new four-year contract earlier this season but his superb form this campaign – where he has already scored 10 goals – has seen him heavily linked to a move to a bigger club.

“The chairmen (of Bolton and Chelsea) are discussing it,” Anelka told French sports daily L’Equipe. “I really hope it happens – and especially that I am eligible to play in the Champions League.

“But until the contract is signed and I am presented to the press in my new shirt, nothing is done.”

The former Arsenal striker has also been linked with a return to Manchester City where he played from 2002-05.

And the 28-year-old insists that would not be a step backwards.

“I want to go to a bigger club and that’s what City have become under a manager such as (Sven-Goran) Eriksson, who I was ready to join in 1999 at Lazio,” added Anelka.

“Staying at Bolton, where I am very happy, wouldn’t be a punishment either.”

Bolton are expected to ask around £19m for Anelka – £11m more than they paid Fenerbahce for him in August 2006, and agent Doug Pingisi is sure the in-form frontman is destined to leave sooner rather than later.

“Nico is ready to join a club at the height of his talent and his football,” he said. “I would love to see him sing the Champions League anthem every year.”