John Mikel Obi close to signing in China

The Nigerian international has found no playing time at Chelsea since Antonio Conte's arrival at Stamford Bridge and was rumoured to be a primary target in the January transfer window for Spanish side Valencia, among other European clubs.

Tianjin TEDA however are reportedly offering the Chelsea player a weeekly salary of around £140,000 and a three-year contract. The Nigerian is currently in his 11th season at Chelsea.

If the move goes through, Obi will join at Tianjin TEDA two more players who made a name for themselves in European football before being seduced by the emerging Chinese league, in former Sporting Lisbon attacking midfielder Fredy Montero and Brazilian forward Wagner, formerly of CSKA Moscow.