Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel set to join Galatasaray

John Obi Mikel has revealed he is on the verge of leaving Chelsea to join Didier Drogba at Galatasaray.

Mikel only signed a new five-year deal with Chelsea in December, but Jose Mourinho’s return as manager cast doubt over his long-term future at Stamford Bridge as the pair fell out during the Portuguese’s first spell in charge of the club.

Were the 26-year-old to stay at Chelsea he would face a battle to prove himself to Mourinho but he looks set to bring his seven-year stay to an end.

The Nigeria international has confirmed Chelsea and Galatasaray are in talks about a deal and, after seeking advice from Drogba, he is excited at the prospect of joining the Turkish side.

“I’m very pleased with Galatasaray’s offer,” Mikel is quoted as saying in Turkish newspaper, Sabah.

“I asked Drogba for advice and he told me that Istanbul is a fantastic city, that Galatasaray is a huge club and that I have to make the move.

“I have played at Chelsea for a long time and it’s now time for me to leave.

“I’m still only 26 and it’s great to receive an offer from a club [Galatasaray] playing Champions League football and doing well in the competition.

“Talks have reached an advanced level between Chelsea and Galatasaray. Chelsea won’t make the move difficult and regarding my salary there won’t be a problem.

“All that is left is for the clubs to reach an agreement.”