Chelsea consider shock swoop for Man City defender

Chelsea are rumoured to be interested in signing Manchester City's out-of-favour defender Micah Richards, The Guardian reports.

The England international, who is currently plying his trade on loan at Fiorentina, will be available on a free transfer at the end of the season.

According to The Guardian, the 26-year-old is resigned to leaving the Premier League champions next summer, having failed to cement a place in the first-team under Manuel Pellegrini.

The report adds that the Blues could seal the player's services on a free, with manager Jose Mourinho open to offering him with sufficient game-time at Stamford Bridge.