By Ameenu Shardow
Michael Essien did not travel with the Chelsea team from the hotel to the Stadium for their Uefa Super Cup match against Atletico Madrid, GHANAsoccernet.com has gathered.
Essien’s absence has given credence to reports he is set for a loan switch to Arsenal before the European transfer window shuts in a few hours time.
Both Chelsea and Arsenal are said to be locked in advanced discussions over the terms for his switch to north London.
He has thus been put on standby to sign for the Gunners the very minute negotiations are successfully concluded.
The 29-year-old has fallen down the perking order at Stamford Bridge under manager Roberto Di Matteo.
Arsenal thus provides a good opportunity to revive his career with also the attraction of Champions League football too good to resist.
If successful, Essien will be a direct replacement for Alexander Song who left Arsenal for Barcelona in a 15m Euro swoop.