It is believed by the newspaper that Cole is currently weighing up his options, as relations with current Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho have become strained.
Cesar Azpilicueta has filled in for Cole at left back since the England man was dropped after a poor performance against Newcastle United a month ago.
And Red Bulls – who have a spot for their designated ‘marquee’ players available – are under the impression Cole has always been interested in ending his career in the MLS, the newspaper claims.
They want Cole to link up with his former Arsenal team-mate Thierry Henry this January, according to the report, before the season begins in March.
Cole turns 33 this month and is out of contract with Chelsea at the end of the season. In his current form, it would seem unlikely he will be offered a new deal.
The left back has 106 England caps to his name, but Roy Hodgson was reportedly another who was concerned with his lack of sharpness after his appearance against Germany for the Three Lions.
Cole could yet be cut from the squad and face not going to Brazil for the World Cup as Leighton Baines is now supposedly Hodgson’s preferred choice.
Cole earns a “basic” salary of around £60,000 per week at Stamford Bridge, according to the newspaper, and with the money in the American game there is believed to be no qualms with matching that salary, or even making a more tempting offer to turn the head of the out of form man.
It’s also thought by the paper that LA Galaxy are interested in bringing Cole to the club, and will contest any bid from the Red Bulls.
Galaxy have also been linked with a move for Frank Lampard – a much higher valued man by Mourinho currently – but a move for either of the players may very well tempt the other to follow.
Chelsea are supposedly looking for a new left back in January, the newspaper claims, and may well be willing to release Cole for free.
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