Salomon Kalou, who is likely to be released by Chelsea come the end of the season, is expected to make a move to Bundesliga side Schalke 04. The Ivorian has also linked with several top clubs including London rivals Arsenal and former club Feyenoord, who were also speculated to be chasing the forward. The Champions League medal winner though is rumoured to be surplus to requirements at the Blues, despite making the starting line-up in the big final in Munich.

Kalou joined Chelsea from Dutch side Feyenoord in 2006 for an estimated fee of Â£9 million. Kalou has won a Premier League title and four FA Cup titles during his spell at Chelsea. However, since the arrival of Andre Villas-Boas at the start of the previous season, Kalou's role at the club reduced significantly as the focus shifted on to Fernando Torres. Kalou only made 12 League appearances for the Blues last season. The 26 year-old has not been offered a new contract and is widely expected to be allowed to leave as a free agent.

The German side are reported to be drawing up a lucrative deal for the player, who could face his former employers in next season's Champions League if he makes the switch. Arsenal are also said to be chasing the striker, amid reports of uncertainty surrounding the future of their star striker Robin van Persie. However, the player is reported to be more interested in a move to Germany.

Schalke are highly interested in securing Kalou for a bargain as they look to bolster their squad after they finished in third position in the Bundesliga. If the deal comes through, Kalou will have a big responsibility on his shoulders as he will have to live up to the high standards set by the departing Spanish legend Raul.