JOE COLE and Michael Ballack were last night released by Chelsea.
England World Cup star Cole turned down Blues’ offer of £90,000 a week because he wanted parity with the club’s top stars, who are paid up to £150,000 a week.
Negotiations collapsed and Chelsea have finally withdrawn their offer, so Cole, 28, can go on July 1.
German midfielder Ballack, 33, is also leaving the Double winners.
He had wanted a one-year extension to his existing deal but once again Chelsea refused to meet his demands as the club attempt to impose a strict new pay code.
