Michael Essien’s agent has revealed the Chelsea midfielder is interested in joining AC Milan this month and has urged the Serie A club to contact the Blues.
Chelsea are believed to be prepared to let Essien leave, as they are on the verge of completing the £21million signing of Nemanja Matic from Benfica.
The Ghana international, who joined the Blues from Lyon for £24.4m in 2005, has become a fringe member of the squad and started just five games this term.
He wants to play more regularly ahead of the World Cup this summer and AC Milan have been linked with a bid.
Essien’s representative, Fabien Piveteau, told Spazio Milan: “Milan have to first speak with Chelsea and they have to decide what they want to do with Essien.
“We have not yet opened any direct talks with AC Milan but this does not mean he cannot move to Italy. Clearly this is a great opportunity for my player.
“Milan are still in the running in the Champions League and are a great club, despite the difficulties of the moment.
“[Essien] is fine and wants to play ahead of the World Cup, where he intends to do well with Ghana. We are fascinated by the Milan hypothesis and, from here to the end of the month, we want to explore all the requirements.”
Essien’s contract runs out in 18 months but Chelsea are willing for him to move on loan, like he did last season at Real Madrid, or secure a permanent switch.
