Midfielder open to MLS options
Chelsea’s John Obi Mikel is expecting to leave Chelsea in the upcoming January transfer window, and it looking at the MLS as his possible next move.
The Nigerian has not yet played under Antonio Conte since the Italian arrived as manager, despite getting a run of games at the end of last season under Guus Hiddink.
His Chelsea deal is expiring next summer, which gives him permission in January to speak to other clubs and come to a pre-contract arrangement.
“When you have a year left, in January you are allowed to talk to other clubs and sign a pre-contract or have an agreement so, yes, I will talk to other clubs because you never know what is going to happen,” Mikel said.
“If it is going to be the Premier League there will be options. If it is China or some other places, we will see.
“One thing is for sure, I will make the best decision.
“I’ve been here for a long, long time. I’ve spent 11 years of my life in this football club, it is my home. This season is the last at the club if my contract ends. I am quite relaxed about it, the future looks good.”
Mikel has not ruled out a move to the MLS, where he would be reunited with former Chelsea colleague Frank Lampard.
“Who knows, I may go over there and play with him, or play against him,” he said.
By Ben Kelly – @benkelly_10
