Ashley Cole linked with Barcelona

Ashley Cole will reportedly attempt to force through a move to Barcelona in the summer if Chelsea opt to retain the services of manager Andre Villas-Boas.

The Portuguese coach is believed to have had heated discussions with a number of senior players in recent weeks, including England international Cole.

As a result, Cole was dropped to the bench for Wednesday's 3-1 loss to Napoli.

Cole has attracted interest from Barcelona in the past and he has now instructed his agent to discover if they are still keen on his signature, according to the Daily Star.

The 31-year-old joined Chelsea from Arsenal in 2006.