Former Chelsea defender Ashley Cole nears Roma escape to LA Galaxy

The 35-year-old has struggled to settle in with the Italian giants after signing a two-year contract 18 months ago

Ashley Cole is keen to leave Roma this month (Getty)

Los Angeles Galaxy have offered Ashley Cole an immediate escape from his bleak Roma stay as he negotiates a settlement with the Serie A giants.

The 35-year-old has suffered mild ignominy in Italy since signing a two-year contract 18 months ago and is actively pursuing a way out of the Stadio Olimpico. According to The Guardian, Major League Soccer outfit Galaxy are the only side so far to offer Cole with a contract worth considering.

The former Arsenal and Chelsea defender would team up once more with Steven Gerrard, whom he played alongside at international level with England, if he leaves for the United States.

Cole played just 11 matches for the Giallorossi last term in his 17th season as a professional footballer, bookending a career which has paid witness to three Premier League triumphs, seven FA Cup successes and a Champions League win in 2012.

West Ham United have been linked with the Roma defender in recent months but have since turned their attention elsewhere.