Chelsea are planning a shock January raid for Inter Milan veteran Patrick Vieira. The News of the World says former Arsenal star Vieira, 33, has fallen out of favour at Inter and rarely starts under coach Jose Mourinho.

He has said he will stay in Italy until his contract expires in June, but has growing concerns that his place in the France World Cup team is at risk unless he plays regularly.

The veteran performer was left out of the squad for the controversial play-offs with Republic of Ireland and wants his place.

Chelsea would offer the tough-tackling midfield star an 18-month deal worth around £50,000 a week to beat off interest from Arsenal and Tottenham.

Vieira is seen as ideal cover for Michael Essien and John Mikel Obi, who will be among the Chelsea contingent at the African Cup of Nations in January.