Essien not yet released by Panathinaikos

Panathinaikos have not finished their process of releasing former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien despite widespread news that the Greek giants have released him.

The 33-year-old is still negotiating the terms of his release by the club as he still has one year left on his contract with the club.

The two sides must reach an agreement before the Ghanaian can be declared a free agent which will allow him to join a club of his choice.

While Essien is seeking a complete release and a payout by Panathinaikos the Greek side have been alerted by interest from several clubs and they are trying to benefit from the likely transfer.

Essien is currently is England training with his former club Chelsea as he eyes possible moves to China or Saudi Arabia.

The ex-Ghana international joined Panathinaikos on a two-year deal last year, but his spell was blighted by constant injury woes which sparked the quest for him to be released.

Essien was among three players including Abdul Jeleel Ajagun, German’s Jens Wemmer and Stathis Tavlaridis, who are being shown the exit door.

Essien, who joined Panathinaikos last season from AC Milan, is the highest paid player at the club with an annual salary of 800,000 Euros.