AS Monaco have stepped into the battle for Chelsea fullback Ashley Cole. The Daily Star says Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is interested in taking him to Anfield while New York Red Bulls, Manchester City and Real Madrid are also keen.

But the Kop's plans have taken a serious hit with Monaco offering a mega-money £12m two-year deal.

The French big spenders have qualified for the Champions League next season after finishing runners-up in Ligue 1 and want to strengthen for a European challenge.

Monaco will match Cole's £120,000-a-week wages and he won't be paying any income tax on his earnings in the Principality.