Michael Essien has spoken of his relief at the resolution of his move to Premiership champions Chelsea.
Chelsea and Lyon finally agreed a £26 million fee for Essien Monday and the move is expected to be completed latr this week, with the 22-year-old penning a five-year contract.
Essien told L’Equipe: “The transfer fee is a lot of money and I don’t know what to say but I am relieved.
“I was worried when I heard the Lyon chairman was talking (with Chelsea) on Sunday.
“On Tuesday I will be in Paris to have my medical examination and I will go to London on Thursday.”
The 22-year-old also thanked the Lyon chairman, Jean-Michel Aulas, for allowing him to move to Chelsea.
“I really like the English league,” he added.
“I wanted to play there and Chelsea are one of the biggest clubs in Europe.
“I want to thank the Lyon chairman and technical staff that allowed me to achieve my dream.”
Essien’s move came after a protracted saga which had seen the French club turn down a number of offers from Chelsea. Eventually, with the player making it clear he was desperate to leave, Lyon agreed a deal with the Premier League champions.
