Middle Eastern clubs are moving for off contract Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack.

The Guardian says Ballack, who used to play for Bayern Munich, has emerged as a target for several teams in Dubai, including Al Wasl and Al Shabab. Last week Al Ahli, the biggest club in the Gulf state, demonstrated their intent to challenge for the Asian Champions League when they announced the signing of Italy's World Cup-winning captain, Fabio Cannavaro, on a free from Juventus.

Other clubs in Dubai, backed by wealthy owners who are seeking to raise the standard and profile of the United Arab Emirates' Pro League, are also in the market for high-profile figures interested in a lucrative end to their careers.

A source from the UAE Pro League said: "The clubs here know there are some top names from the Premier League who have reached the end of their time there and are looking for a final move. They are ambitious.

"Michael Ballack has been approached and he is now the No1 target for clubs. In Italy the chance of bringing [Gennaro] Gattuso here from Milan is being looked at and Cannavaro coming will help that. Inquiries have also been made about Guti at Real Madrid."