Chelsea transfers: Michael Essien thanks Blues ahead of Milan move

Michael Essien has paid tribute to Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho after the Blues agreed a deal with AC Milan on Friday night.

The Ghana international is set join i Rossoneri, who appointed former Netherlands midfielder Clarence Seedorf as their new manager earlier this week.

I really want to thank the chairman and the team and thanks to Jose Mourinho, who has allowed me to wear the Rossoneri shirt

Michael Essien

The 31-year-old is expected to sign an 18-month deal with the seven-time European champions, subject to a medical in Milan.

And Essien, who spent last season on loan at Real Madrid, thanked Mourinho for giving the midfielder the chance to play for the Serie A outfit.

“I’m happy to be here. I will do my best for Milan and I hope to be ready to play,” Essien told the Milan Channel.

“I spoke with Clarence Seedorf two days ago. I cannot wait to be available.

“I really want to thank the chairman and the team and thanks to Jose Mourinho, who has allowed me to wear the Rossoneri shirt.”

Earlier on Friday, Blues boss Mourinho insisted that the west London side wouldn’t prevent Essien from sealing a “big” move should an offer arise.

“Michael Essien is in a position at the moment where he can go or he can stay. If he stays we will be more than happy,” Mourinho told his pre-match media conference on Friday.

“He is a fantastic club man and a fantastic team player.

“But if something big comes for him he is another one who we feel we must show the respect, and to show him the respect is not to stop him from going.”