Nigerian midfielder John Obi Mikel is expected to leave the club in January or next summer, as he clearly isn’t in the plans of Antonio Conte.
The 29-year-old has spent over ten years at Stamford Bridge, but with his contract expiring next summer, it appears his time is finally up at the London club.
Marseille are reportedly keen on signing Mikel, as Lassana Diara could leave the Ligue 1 club in January. According to a latest report on French website Le 10 Sport, Rudi Garcia remains interested in signing Mikel, with the Marseille boss feeling the player is reliable.
The fact that three time champions Nigeria have failed to qualify for the African Cup of Nations also makes it tempting for Marseille to sign Mikel. Chelsea are likely to demand a nominal fee for Mikel, but it remains to be seen if the Ligue 1 club can sort out his wages demands.
Several Chinese clubs are also keen on the Chelsea midfielder, and they would be able to pay high enough wages. The choice for Mikel is prestige and football at a good level… or money.
