Rumour: Ashley Cole attracts interest from Liverpool, Barcelona and AC Milan

Former Chelsea and England left-back Ashley Cole, whose contract with the Blues expired at the end of the season, is wanted by Barcelona, Liverpool and AC Milan, according to the Daily Star.

Cole, 33, was dropped by Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho last season, instead choosing Cesar Azpilicueta out of position. The Englishman then lost his place in England’s World Cup squad with Roy Hodgson picking Southampton’s 18-year-old Luke Shaw over the experienced Cole.

However, despite being overlooked by both Mourinho and Hodgson, there is still plenty of demand for Cole with top clubs seriously looking into the possibility of signing him this summer for a free transfer.

<Liverpool, who have --<previously been linked with Cole-- an lack quality in the full-back positions, have reportedly had the Englishman in their sights for a number of months since it became apparent that he no longer had a future at Stamford Bridge.

Barcelona, too, are on the lookout for new quality in defence as new manager Luis Enrique is in search for new players to try and regain their La Liga title that Atletico Madrid won last season.

AC Milan is also another option for Cole, who seemingly has plenty of top clubs willing to offer him a deal.

The quality of clubs interested in Cole clearly says a lot about his talent, despite his age. Ashley Cole created 17 chances in 17 appearances in the Premier League last season.