Chelsea are prepared to cut loose striker Andriy Shevchenko - if the can sign a replacement.

The People says Sheva, 31, has told Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich he is ready to leave Stamford Bridge - and could be set for a switch to American Major League Soccer before the season starts in April.

While the Ukrainian is not demanding a transfer, he hopes his relationship with Abramovich will allow him to sever links with Chelsea this month.

Shevchenko has failed to light up Stamford Bridge since his British record £31million signing from AC Milan 18 months ago and has not seen his fortunes change since Avram Grant replaced Jose Mourinho as boss.