Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien could be close to sealing a departure from Stamford Bridge during the January transfer window.

Essien, who has rarely featured for the Blues this season, was linked with a move to AC Milan earlier this month, and it appears as though the proposed deal could be close to being completed.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Essien's representatives are in Italy attempting to negotiate a deal with the Serie A outfit, who are keen to strengthen their squad after a poor start to their domestic campaign.

Bookmaker SkyBet have also revealed that they have closed their market on Essien leaving Chelsea for the San Siro after a number of big-money bets.