Essien on his way out?

[James 5,138]

Blues midfielder Michael Essien may be on his way out of Stamford Bridge as new Milan boss Clarence Seedorf looks to make him his first signing according to reports in La Gazzetta dello.

Essien's agent Fabien Piveteau had previously revealed the desire to leave Chelsea, whilst indicating a move to Italy was very likely.

Piveteau today denied there had been any official contact with the Rossoneri, but is hoping Chelsea can come round to the idea soon.

"Milan have to first speak with Chelsea and the London club have to decide what they want to do with Essien", Piveteau told Spazio Milan.

"We have not yet opened any direct talks with AC Milan, but this does not mean he cannot move to Italy.

"Clearly this is a great opportunity for my player.

"Milan are still in the running in the Champions League and are a great club, despite the difficulties of the moment.

"Essien is fine and wants to play ahead of the World Cup, where he intends to do well with the Ghana national team.

"We are fascinated by the Milan hypothesis and, from here to the end of the month, we want to explore and understand all the requirements."

Essien has spent more than eight years at Chelsea, but was out on loan at Real Madrid last season where played under current Blues boss Jose Mourinho.