AC Milan 'chased Essien for a few months'

AC Milan Chief Executive Adriano Galliani explains the club had been “chasing Michael Essien for a few months” and feels he will fit into Clarence Seedorf’s tactics.

Chelsea released a statement late Friday night confirming “an agreement reached with AC Milan for the transfer of Michael Essien, subject to a medical examination and him agreeing personal terms.”

The Ghanaian midfielder flew in to Milan on Friday and had dinner with Glliani and new teammate Sulley Muntari, after which the CEO spoke to journalists.

“We had been chasing him for a few months. We think he can do very well in Seedorf’s new system, sitting in the two in front of the defence and above all he can be included in the Champions League squad.”

It has been rumoured that Muntari was instrumental in the move, calling his fellow Ghana international in November.

“Muntari was one of his greatest sponsors,” confirmed Galliani.

“Riccardo Montolivo will be out for two Champions League games and Muntari one, so we needed a midfielder.

“I think he is physically reliable, but he has to pass the medical tests at Milanello and then he can sign.”

Galliani was asked whether Essien was similar to former Milan man Marcel Desailly.

“Hopefully” Marcel was a legend. Are we to expect any transfer scoops before January 31? We hope so.”