Ballack is reportedly on his way to join Chelsea, reports that were reinforced by comments by officials from Bayern and the English Champions.

"For me it's the Premiership rather than Spain's La Liga. In England the pace is fast and tackles are hard," The 29-year-old told the Daily Express.

"Look at players that become legends in England, like Patrick Vieira and Roy Keane. I see a lot of myself in them."

Ballack joined Bayern after the 2002 World Cup and helped the club win two Bundesliga titles and two domestic cup trophies.