Report: LA Galaxy open discussions with Ashley Cole

The LA Galaxy have begun talks with defender Ashley Cole over a non-Designated Player contract, a source told Jeff Carlisle of ESPNFC.

Cole, whose status with Roma is unclear after the Italian club reportedly agreed to terminate his contract in the summer, is looking to kick-start his career during the January window.

Various reports linked the former Arsenal and Chelsea man to Premier League struggler Aston Villa. But ESPNFC believes his destination lies stateside, corroborating an earlier report from the Irish Sun.

The Galaxy shipped former Designated Player Omar Gonzalez to Mexican club Pachuca on Tuesday and have the funds to negotiate a transfer for Cole. They've also shown the greatest interest in the player, according to Carlisle.

Cole, once one of the best left-backs in the game, hasn't featured in a competitive match since March.

The 35-year-old former England international won three Premier League titles, seven FA Cups, the Champions League, and the Europa League during his time with Arsenal and Chelsea.

He signed a two-year deal with Roma in 2014, but made just 11 Serie A appearances.