Chelsea midfielder Jon Obi Mikel has agreed a deal in principle to join Valencia, ending a ten year at Chelsea. Mikel had recived offers from several clubs including Chinese club Shanghai SIPG who were offering him a huge salary raise. Mikel has found himself frozen out by new Blues boss Antonio Conte as league-leading Chelsea evolved their style under the Italian coach. He has failed to make a single Premier League appearance this season.
Mikel agreed to move after meeting with Valencia's sporting director, Jesus Garcia Pitarch, in London. He will sign a four year deal with the club.
However, the crisis-hit Spaniards must now make a big decision as Financial Fair Play restrictions mean that they won't be able to afford to sign both Mikel and top target Simone Zaza this month.
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The 29-year-old joined Chelsea in 2006 in a protracted and controversial transfer, having initially signed a deal with Manchester United. The Blues ended up paying United £12million for the midfielder, plus £4million to Norwegian side Lyn Oslo. Mikels contract runs out in June 2017. He arrived at Chelsea in 2006. He has played 376 games for Chelsea.
Africa Team