Chelsea are ready to smooth a deal for Andriy Shevchenko to return to AC Milan.

The Sun says Blues chief executive Peter Kenyon flew out to meet Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani in Sardinia yesterday to discuss Sheva's return.

The Ukraine striker, 31, has been a flop since his £30.8million move to Stamford Bridge two years ago.

He has hit just nine League goals, while being paid £130,000 a week as a sub.

He is not in new boss Phil Scolari's plans and even owner Roman Abramovich agrees it is time to cut his losses.

Galliani said: "Shevchenko has remained in our hearts."