Ballack, Cole being released by Chelsea: reports

Germany captain Michael Ballack and England midfielder Joe Cole are to be released on free transfers by Chelsea, British media reported Wednesday, shortly before the start of the World Cup.

Ballack, 33, has been ruled out of the tournament with an ankle injury but Cole has played himself back into contention for Fabio Capello’s England side despite being marginalised at Stamford Bridge under Carlo Ancelotti.

Brazilian Juliano Belletti is also expected to leave the London club next month, media said.

Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs who have expressed an interest in Cole while Ballack was initially offered a new one-year deal but wanted two years, according to reports.

Ballack is drawing interest from German side Schalke 04 as well as wealthy clubs in Dubai, the Guardian reported.

The players are due to be released when their contracts expire at the end of the month.