Makelele pondering US switch
Makelele joined the Blues from Madrid in 2003
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Monday, 04, Jun 2007 08:33
Chelsea ace Claude Makelele has revealed he may join David Beckham in Major League Soccer (MLS) next season.
The 34-year-old has a year remaining on his contract at the Blues but is facing a battle to play regularly next season.
Makelele was on the bench for most of the second half of the season after the emergence of youngsters Jon Obi Mikel and Lassana Diarra.
And the signing of Steve Sidwell from Reading on a free transfer may force the ex-Real Madrid star to leave Stamford Bridge.
Makelele said playing in MLS would not hamper his hopes of staying in the France squad.
"I have not decided where I will play next season. I could remain with Chelsea, as I am under contract for next season," Makelele told Telefoot.
"The United States is an option. It wouldn't prevent me from playing for France, ask the coach."
Makelele's relationship with boss Jose Mourinho soured after he continued playing for France after last year's World Cup having initially announced his retirement.
And the anchorman insisted he would play for France if they qualify for next year's European Championships.
"If Raymond Domenech calls me up, of course I would be pleased to play Euro 2008 next summer," Makelele added.
Makelele has been linked with a move to Greek champions Olympiakos and Spanish side Villareal.
He played for France in Saturday's 2-0 win over Ukraine, setting up the opening goal for Franck Ribery.