Claude Makelele has ended his five-year spell at Chelsea by completing a move to Paris St Germain.
PSG have reached agreement on terms of the deal with the player and Chelsea.
Makelele was a £16.8million signing by Chelsea from Real Madrid in 2003. The 35-year-old won two league titles during his spell at Stamford Bridge, and helped the club reach last season's Champions League final.
Makelele retired from international football after France's disappointing showing at Euro 2008.
The player was brought to Chelsea from Real Madrid by former manager Claudio Ranieri, shortly after Roman Abramovich took over as the club's new owner.
trophy success
The former Nantes, Marseille and Celta Vigo player added defensive strength to Chelsea's midfield and linked up well with Frank Lampard in the centre.
He departs at a time Chelsea have an abundance of midfield options, with Deco, Lampard, Michael Essien, Michael Ballack, Joe Cole, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Mikel Jon Obi set to compete for selection next season.
A statement on Chelsea's website read: "Everyone at Chelsea would like to take this opportunity to thank Claude for the five years of service he has given to the club.
"He has been a key part of our trophy success during that time and we wish him well for the future.
"He will always be welcomed back to Stamford Bridge in the future either as a player or as a friend of the club."
www.chelseafc.com