Michael Essien set for January exit

Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport has suggested that Ghana midfielder Michael Essien will be leaving AC Milan in the winter transfer window.

The experienced midfielder has failed to make the expected impact since arriving from Chelsea last January and the Rossoneri are prepared to offload him at the earliest opportunity.

Essien is being heavily linked with a move to the MLS, and AC Milan are reportedly prepared to allow him to leave on a free transfer even if his contract runs until the end of the season.

Namely, with the 31-year-old earning around €3 million per season at San Siro, the Rossoneri are ready to wave the compensation in an attempt to get rid of his hefty wage bill.

Michael Essien has only made 12 Serie A appearances since joining on a free transfer from Chelsea, but he recently praised Filippo Inzaghi’s coaching methods, comparing the Milan boss to Real coach Carlo Ancelotti.