Michael Ballack could make a surprising return to Chelsea in the coming months.

The former Germany and Chelsea footballer is in line for a director of football job at the Stamford Bridge club.

Chelsea are adding the position as an attempt to create a liaison between the club's first team manager and the rest of the board.

The club have been without a technical director since Michael Emenalo left for Monaco in November. Now they believe that a director of football role would fill that gap perfectly.

Ballack is among the names being considered, claims the London Evening Standard.

He always had fond memories of his time at the club. In an interview five years ago, he said about Chelsea: "It was a really successful and cool time. London is a brilliant city."

Other names being considered include Juliano Belletti - another former player - and Luis Campos, the Lille sporting director.