Transfer news: Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien set for AC Milan switch

The Ghana midfielder joined Chelsea from Lyon in 2004 for £24m

Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien could be on his way out of the club in January according to his agent (GETTY IMAGES)

Ghana midfielder Michael Essien is poised to move to AC Milan from Chelsea.

The 31-year-old has found opportunities limited at Stamford Bridge since returning from a loan spell at Real Madrid last season and has permission from Jose Mourinho to leave.

Milan were one of a number of interested parties and on Friday announced Essien is expected in northern Italy later in the evening.

A statement on acmilan.com read: "Michael Essien in expected in the city this evening."

Essien joined Chelsea from Lyon for £24.4million in 2005.

The midfielder suffered from a succession of knee injuries and the signing of Nemanja Matic from Benfica saw Essien slip further down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.

PA