Essien For Real Madrid

Michael Essien is considering his future with English side with Real Madrid his likely destination, according to reports.

The midfielder as well as Didier Drogba and Ricardo Carvalho are believed to be unhappy at the current regime at Stamford Bridge after last week's League Cup defeat to Tottenham.

According to reports in 'News of the World', the trio lead a gang of Stamford Bridge stars all ready to leave the west London title-chasers if owner Roman Abramovich decides to keep faith with manager Avram Grant.

Reports of disharmony at Chelsea emerged after their disappointing Carling Cup defeat to Tottenham and a source told the News of the World: "There are a lot of players asking a lot of questions about Grant.

"If he's here next season, then a lot of the big names will be out the door.

"There is no real faith in him - and many of the players don't think he's capable of making the big decisions.

Lampard and Drogba - who was left out of the 4-0 win at West Ham yesterday - are targets for Barcelona while Essien and Carvalho are interesting Real Madrid.