Jose Mourinho has handed new signing Michael Ballack the number 13 shirt; which could be seen as the manager pandering to the highest paid star at the club or a demonstration of the fact that Gallas has played his last game for the blues.

Gallas has not joined his teammates for their tour of America, following his holiday after playing in the World Cup for France. The situation is being monitored by a number of clubs, but Arsenal appear to be watching it closer than most as they have a similar situation with Ashley Cole seeking a move to Stamford Bridge. Arsenal could do worse than demand Gallas plus cash for Cole who is valued at over £25 million. Especially after releasing Sol Campbell from the last year of his contract.