Mikel set for China move

CHELSEA castaway John Obi Mikel could be about to take the plunge into the Far East and follow his team-mate Oscar out the door in January.

The Nigerian has failed to make a single appearance this season for the Blues, as new manager Antonio Conte consistently overlooks him in his 3-4-3 formation.

With Oscar set to make a sensational £52 million move to Shanghai SIPG, it’s reported that two Chinese clubs are looking at signing the 29-year-old.

Chelsea are yet to offer their veteran a new deal, with his current deal set to expire after this season.

The central midfielder has been at Stamford Bridge since 2006, and has made 374 appearances for the West London side, winning two Premier League titles, four FA Cup’s, two League Cup’s, the Europa League and the Champions League.

Last season Mikel established himself as an important player, and cemented his position in the starting XI when Guus Hiddink took charge.

But Conte has taken a blind side to his abilities, with Marseille rumoured to be interested, and there are even reports of a shock transfer to Manchester United.

The Red Devils almost snapped him up before he made the move to Chelsea, and former boss Jose Mourinho could be about to rescue him from his nightmare.

Antonio Conte has revealed he has no plans to let the 2016 Olympic bronze medallist leave in January, but has conceded that a new deal is unlikely.

Chelsea sit top of the Premier League, winning their last ten matches as they chase down Arsenal’s record of 13 straight league wins.