Transfer Rumour Rater: Ashley Cole to Leave Chelsea for the MLS

Ashley Cole has lost his place in the Chelsea team recently, with Cesar Azpilicueta performing superbly out of position at left-back.

The Spaniard's form has put Cole's future in jeopardy, with the England international's contract expiring next summer and no sign of a new deal yet.

The MLS is set to expand in 2015 and is looking to increase the quality of the league and spread the appeal globally.

The Mail's Sami Mokbel reported that the New York Red Bulls would be interested in bringing the 31-year-old to the United States.

Without first-team football, Cole may be forced out as early as January to secure his place for Brazil 2014, but a move to the MLS would not necessarily improve his situation with Roy Hodgson, who is known to have warned players against moves across the pond if they still value their international future.

Cole has nothing to prove at club level any more, having won everything there is to win in English and European football, and with the former Gunners star holidaying in America each summer, a more permanent move could be appealing.