Michael Essien linked with shock move to HNK Rijeka

Chelsea legend Michael Essien is reportedly closing in on a surprise transfer to Croatian club HNK Rijeka after a brief stint back training with the Blues.

The Chelsea legend hasn’t played since leaving Panathinaikos in August.

And according to Radio Rijeka, the 34-year-old is on the verge of making a move to the Adriatic coast.

HNK Rijeka are currently six points clear of Dinamo Zagreb at the top of the Croatian league.

Essien will be hoping he enjoys a more fruitful spell in Croatia than he did in Athens.

The Ghanaian’s time at Panathinaikos was marred by injury and an ongoing legal dispute.

Essien had a year on his contract with the Greek side and claims he was released without his consent.