Joe Cole yet to receive offer

(GSM) – Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has revealed that he still has not been offered a new deal by the club, although he hopes to reach an agreement in the summer.

Cole’s current contract is set to expire at the end of the season which means he could leave Stamford Bridge on a free transfer.

And despite Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti stressing recently that Cole remains an integral part of his plans, speculation regarding a possible move has been mounting for some time.

The likes of Manchester City, Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the 28-year-old midfielder who has struggled to establish himself as a regular in the starting XI since returning from serious injury.

The England international has now voiced his frustration after admitting that talks are not progressing smoothly.

“I’ve never spoken publicly about contracts before,” Cole said in The Sun.

“I don’t think contracts should really be discussed mid-season. I have always signed mine in the summer in the past.

“But this time it’s different. We can’t seem to find common ground and it’s distracting. At the moment there is no offer on the table, so I know where I stand.

“I still hope to talk in the summer.”

Cole has been struggling with his fitness this season and concedes that it has been difficult to rediscover his best form.

The former West Ham player believes he can play a crucial role in Chelsea’s quest for a domestic double and has pleaded with Ancelotti to give him more chances.

He’s also aware of the fact that he needs to play regularly over the next couple of months to make it to England’s World Cup squad.

Speaking about his fitness, Cole stated: “There are no niggles. Of course, I am not match fit, but how can I be when I don’t play?”

“I want to be part of the Chelsea team to win the Premier League and the FA Cup. But I need an opportunity to start games back to back.”

“I know I can help my team achieve our dream this season if given a chance. I am not giving up on this Chelsea team.

“I am not giving up on England and the World Cup either. I need to be playing consistently well for Chelsea before I can hope to be part of the World Cup squad.

“I just want to play football for Chelsea.”