Australian side Wellington Phoenix to sign Michael Essien

Former Ghana midfielder Michael Essien is reported to be on the verge of joining Australian top-flight side Wellington Phoenix.

According to reports, the Yellow and Black lads are close to announcing one of the biggest coups in the history of the A-League as the two parties are in advance stage of negotiations.

The 36-year-old has been without a club since leaving Indonesian side Persib Bandung last year.

Essien, a former African Player of the Year, began his professional career in France with Bastia and Lyon but it was his move to EPL giants Chelsea that shot him to superstardom.

In a nine-year career at Stamford Bridge, the tough-tackling midfielder claimed two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, a League Cup and, in 2012, the crowning glory, the Champions League.

He has also had stints with Real Madrid, AC Milan and lately in Greece with Panathinaikos.