Roma defender Ashley Cole linked with New York City FC

Roma defender Ashley Cole has been linked with a move to Major League Soccer outfit New York City FC.

The ex-England international could be allowed to join the American club for free at the end of the season after falling out of favour in Italy, reports the Daily Star.

Cole still has more than a year remaining on his Roma contract, but the left-back is not believed to be included in manager Rudi Garcia's future plans.

The 34-year-old's former Chelsea teammate Frank Lampard will make his debut for New York later this year, while Didier Drogba has also been linked with a switch to the MLS side.