Chelsea FC: John Obi Mikel’s Agent Denies Rumors Of A Summer Move
Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Chelsea FC midfielder John Obi Mikel has been linked to moves away from Stamford Bridge this season but his agent Olatunji John Shittu has dismissed any links or rumors of a summer move. Mikel has been linked to Galatasaray, Fenerbache, and most recently to Inter Milan since they have been taken over by Indonesian businessman Erick Thorir who has also expressed interest in striker Fernando Torres. The main point Shittu wanted to get across is that Mikel would stay at Chelsea FC and fight for his place in the starting lineup even though he has not been first choice for much of this season.
Shittu spoke to the Daily Times Nigeria and explained that the rumors have no basis in reality:
"“It’s all part of the transfer speculations. As far as I am concerned, there is nothing like that. [The link with Inter] is just a rumour. We heard a similar thing that he was going to Galatasaray last season. Mikel is a fighter who will like to stay and fight for his place in Chelsea.”"
Shittu also implored the folks over at the Daily Times to root for Chelsea and John Obi Mikel in the semifinals even though the Nigerian midfielder will miss the second leg due to suspension:
"“They are focused on beating Atletico Madrid in London and hopefully move on to beat either Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in the final at Lisbon. It’s going to be tough but by God’s grace they will win the trophy. We should just pray for him and wish him and his team well.”"
The transfer speculation surrounding John Obi Mikel has been swirling for years since the Nigerian has not been an automatic choice in the starting lineup. Even though he’s only 27 it seems that he has been at the club for a much longer time than that. He has won his fair share of trophies with the club and he has no reason to leave the club unless he is that desperate for regular first team football. Mikel’s calm and collected approach on the ball may not set the hearts of neutrals alight but he has a very specific skill set that Chelsea and Jose Mourinho often need.
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