Discontented Chelsea midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron has requested a transfer, club sources said on Friday.

The Argentine international, who joined the London club from Manchester United in a 15 million pound ($26.24 million) deal shortly after Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich bought Chelsea last July, has had a miserable season because of a back injury, making only 14 appearances.

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon said earlier this week several Chelsea players would leave and others arrive after the season ends on Saturday.

British newspapers have speculated that Veron would move to Inter Milan at a much reduced fee. Backed by Abramovich's billions, Chelsea are one of few European clubs that can afford to make a loss on a top player.

Veron had successful spells at Sampdoria and Lazio before moving to Manchester United, where he also failed to shine.