"We could do worse than signing Makelele," said Redknapp. "If he's available, I'd love to have him in my team."

The 34-year-old holding midfielder, who used to play for Real Madrid, joined the Londoners in 2003.

Although once one of the first names on the team sheet, last season he saw his playing time reduced due to the glut of talented midfielders at the disposal of Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho.

Makelele, who is known to crave regular first team football during this the twilight of his career, has also attracted the interest of Paris St Germain and Villarreal.