Desailly leaves Chelsea

The powerful French defender had stressed that he would see out the final season of his contract with The Blues before moving on next summer.

Despite being linked with lucrative moves to Qatar, Desailly said he had a role to play at Chelsea and would look to fight for a place in the team.

However, upon his arrival at the club, Mourinho said he would look to move out players he felt were surplus to requirements and Desailly has followed Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink out of the exit door.

Desailly had a further season to run on his deal, but he will now be available on a free transfer after leaving Chelsea by mutual consent.

It remains to be seen if the defender remains in Europe or heads for a lucrative pay day in the Middle East.

Desailly ended another chapter in his career at the weekend, when announcing his international retirement, and he has now moved on from Chelsea following six years at the club.