The Minnesota Timberwolves might be forced to trade Kevin Love after the All-Star power forward told the team that he is not interested in signing a contract extension before his current deal ends after next season.

ESPN reported on Monday that Love already informed the Timberwolves that he intends to test free agency in the summer of 2015. The 25-year-old forward did not ask for a trade, but the Timberwolves are expected to consider dealing Love instead of losing him for nothing when he becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2015.

Several teams are expected to express intention in trading for Love, but any team would like to have an assurance that the five-year veteran will sign an extension with them before giving up assets.

According to ESPN, the Chicago Bulls and the Golden State Warriors are the preferred destinations of the former UCLA standout, who averaged 26.1 points and 12.5 rebounds per game this season.

The Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks were previously mentioned as Love's preferred destination, but the 2008 fifth overall pick, who has not made the playoffs in his first six seasons in the league, wants to be a with team that is ready to contend for a title immediately.

"The Golden State Warriors and Chicago Bulls are among the potential trade destinations that intrigue Love," ESPN noted. "The Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks have likewise been mentioned all season as big-market landing spots that would tempt Love, but going to the best situation for immediate contention is said to be the power forward's priority."

Initial reports indicated that the Timberwolves are ready to part ways with Love before the 2014 NBA Draft, but team owner Glen Taylor is not planning to trade the disgruntled forward soon even if a team offers a high first-round pick.

Timberwolves president of basketball operations Flip Saunders also played down reports that they are already shopping Love, saying that he is still planning to sit down with Love's representatives before considering any move.

"There have been reports we're actively trying to trade him, which isn't true," Saunders said via Star Tribune. "What we're actively trying to do is get our team better. When you do that, you look to see what's out there no matter what it is or for anybody."

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