Nicolas Anelka looks ever more likely to leave Bolton Wanderers after admitting he would love a move to Chelsea. The France forward signed a new four-year contract at the Reebok Stadium earlier this season but his superb form this campaign - where he has already scored 10 goals - has seen him heavily linked to a move to Stamford Bridge.

"The chairmen (of Bolton and Chelsea) are discussing it," Anelka said. "I really hope it happens - and especially that I am eligible to play in the Champions League.

"But until the contract is signed and I am presented to the press in my new shirt, nothing is done."

The former Arsenal striker has also been linked with a return to Manchester City where he played from 2002-05 and the 28-year-old insists that would not be a step backwards.

He added: "I want to go to a bigger club and that's what City have become under a manager such as (Sven-Goran) Eriksson, who I was ready to join in 1999 at Lazio. Staying at Bolton, where I am very happy, wouldn't be a punishment either."

Bolton are expected to ask around £19million for Anelka - £11million more than they paid Fenerbahce for him in August 2006.

Doug Pingisi, Anelka's agent, is sure the in-form frontman is destined to leave sooner rather than later. "Nico is ready to join a club at the height of his talent and his football," he said. "I would love to see him sing the Champions League anthem every year."