Mikel edging closer to China move

Reports that Super Eagles and Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi is set to move to China are credible according to some insiders at the London Club. If the move goes through, the player will be joining his team mate, Oscar in the Far East, come January.

The Nigerian has failed to make a single appearance this season for the Blues, as new manager Antonio Conte consistently overlooks him in his new 3-4-3 formation.

With Oscar set to make a sensational £52 million move to Shanghai SIPG, it’s reported that two Chinese clubs are looking at signing Mikel. Chelsea are yet to offer their veteran a new deal, with his current deal set to expire after this season.

The central midfielder has been at Stamford Bridge since 2006, and has made 374 appearances for the West London side, winning two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups, the Europa League and the Champions League.

Last season Mikel established himself as an important player, and cemented his position in the starting eleven when Guus Hiddink took charge. But Conte has taken a blind side to his abilities, there are other stories that Ligue 1 giants Marseille are also rumoured to be interested.

Conte has revealed he has no plans to let the 2016 Olympic bronze medallist leave in January, but has conceded that a new deal is unlikely. Chelsea sits top of the Premier League, winning their last eleven matches as they chase down Arsenal’s record of 14 straight league wins.