Chelsea legend Michael Essien is reportedly closing in on a surprise transfer to Croatian club HNK Rijeka after a brief stint back training with the Blues.
The 34-year-old is a free agent after leaving Greek side Panathinaikos at the start of this season, and his recent Instagram activity suggests he’s been spending a lot of time at Stamford Bridge.
However, a deal for Essien to rejoin Chelsea never looked likely due to his age and recent fitness record, with injuries marring the last five or so years of his career.
At his peak, the Ghanian was one of the finest midfielders in the Premier League, and helped Chelsea to two Premier League titles, four FA Cups and the Champions League during his nine years in west London.
According to sportarena, Essien is now in talks over a move to HNK Rijeka as they eye some quality and experience in midfield to aid their title challenge.
The club sit top of the Croatian top flight at the moment, six points clear of Dinamo Zagreb.