Chelsea and Manchester United will lead the race for Mahamadou Diarra’s signature after the midfielder suggested he fancied a move to the Premiership next season.

Diarra has been a driving force behind Lyon's rise to the top of the French league this term, as well as their smooth passage into the knockout phase of the Champions League.

But the 24-year-old is hoping to find a fresh challenge in the summer.

His adviser Frederic Guerra admits a move to Spain or Italy is a possibility but says the lure of England is the Mali man’s preferred option.

"The Premiership is, by far, his favourite league," Guerra told Sky Sports. "I can't confirm that he will play there next year, but he would like to.

"Mahamadou is the best defensive midfielder in Europe. We know that Chelsea are looking for a player to replace Claude Makelele, who is getting older.

"Last summer there was contact with Manchester United, and we also know that Manchester United are looking for a defensive midfielder to replace Roy Keane.

"Besides, Real Madrid haven't got a defensive midfielder. It would be logical for Mahamadou to play for one of those teams."

While Alex Ferguson is unlikely to confirm interest in Diarra, at least until the summer, the player does fit the age profile of United's most recent signings.

Ferguson has already ruled out Thomas Gravesen and Michael Ballack because they are too old, yet it is known the Red Devils chief is looking for midfield reinforcement.