Joe Cole is now certain to join Arsenal on a free transfer next month, according to reports.

The England midfielder was a target for Manchester United, Tottenham, Manchester City and West Ham after it emerged his contract talks with Chelsea had stalled.

Joe Cole is set to sign for Arsenal (PA)

Cole has now told Chelsea he will not sign a new contract at Stamford Bridge when his current deal expires at the end of June and has made a decision about his future.

More: Arsenal transfer news and rumours

The 28-year-old has agreed to move across London to join Arsenal, as part of Arsene Wenger’s plans to add some experience to his squad.

According to the Sunday Mirror, he will sign a four-year deal worth around £100,000 a week at the Emirates Stadium.

The signing of Cole, who is currently in South Africa preparing for the World Cup, could help to cushion the potential blow of losing Cesc Fabregas.

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Arsenal have turned down a £29 million bid for Fabregas and stressed that he is not for sale, but the Spain midfielder remains determined to join Barcelona this summer.