Chelsea are considering a £12 million January bid for Manchester City defender Micah Richards.

The People says Richards, 21, is keen to move away from Eastlands to kick-start his faltering career and it is believed that Stamford Bridge chiefs have been making enquiries about him.

Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti sees rightback Richards as a rough diamond and is intrigued by the possibility of signing him.

Chelsea have several options at rightback but first-choice Jose Bosingwa is currently injured and Ancelotti would like to strengthen his squad with Richards, who can also play at centre-back.

Richards is highly regarded by several Premier League managers, especially Aston Villa's Martin O'Neill - who is also likely to launch a January bid.