Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge due to his contract situation.

The Serbian defender has been a key member of the first team since joining the Blues in 2008. However, Ivanovic has a few months left on his contract and will leave as a free transfer at the end of the season.

It is understood that Chelsea are willing to keep him but their contract rules mean that the Serbian can only be offered a one year extension due to his age.

Italian giants Inter Milan are keen to erase any uncertainties about his future and offer him a two year deal.

The Italian outfit are prepared to approach him for a pre-contract agreement in January like they did with the former Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic.

According to Evening Standard (via Daily Star), the Italians are confident of luring the Chelsea defender to Italy on a free transfer and will initiate talks in a few weeks.

It would be beneficial move for all parties involved. Ivanovic is on the decline and will need to be replaced soon.

Furthermore, the player is keen to sort out his long term future and focus on football. In that case, Inter’s deal suit him perfectly.