Zola's return to Chelsea has to wait

Gianfranco Zola has put a return to Chelsea on hold until the end of the season in order to concentrate on Cagliari's promotion push.

But one player who looks certain to leave Stamford Bridge is Juan Veron.

Chelsea legend Zola has the opportunity to return to Stamford Bridge in a possible coaching role next season, but could also complete a dream return to Serie A with his hometown club.

Cagliari are second in Serie B with five games remaining, one point behind leaders Palermo and, with five teams gaining automatic promotion this season, their return to the top flight is all but assured.

The return of the 37-year-old to Chelsea would be a huge hit with fans. Zola said: "Chelsea have been very good to me in the past. I'm not sure what's going to happen but Chelsea still have a special place in my heart. It will be a difficult decision. On one hand I want to carry on with what I've been doing for 15 years but I may have the chance to do something new. When the promotion is complete I will decide. There are five games left and we can still win the league."

Veron's £16million transfer has been a disappointment and now that the crowd has turned against the former Manchester United player the Chelsea have decided to cut their losses.

It will almost certainly mean a deficit on the transfer with Internazionale said to be willing to pay up to £10m. Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon, meanwhile, will address fans for the first time this evening at a supporters' dinner at Stamford Bridge.

He is expected to answer questions on all aspects of club policy, including Claudio Ranieri's future and a possible move for David Beckham.