Shakira key to Gerard Pique Chelsea deal?

Shakira's friendship with Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas could reportedly prove pivotal in deciding where boyfriend Gerard Pique would head should he leave Barcelona.

According to the Daily Star, the Spanish defender is poised to leave the Catalan giants and the Blues are prepared to compete with Manchester City and former club Manchester United for his signature.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is thought to have earmarked Pique as an ideal long-term replacement for captain John Terry.

However, the Stamford Bridge outfit may hold an advantage, with Pique's pop star girlfriend Shakira said to prefer the opportunity to live in London rather than Manchester.

Pique spent four years at United before rejoining Barcelona in 2008.