Michael Essien insists on Chelsea transfer

Ghana has a football star in 22 year old prized midfielder Michael Essien.

Chelsea seems bent on buying him and he now seems bent on leaving.

Every scout in the world wishes to find a player like this. Whoever scouted Essien for French club Bastia knows his stuff.

Michael Essien, who speaks four languages including English, was born in Accra, Ghana.

His father was a professional footballer for Ghanaian club Hearts of Oak. Essien joined his first club in Ghana, Liberty Professionals, at age 13. By 16 he was in the youth national side and played in the 1999 World Youth Championship in New Zealand (where they finished 3rd).

Interestingly, he was given a trial after that youth cup by Manchester United. Alex Ferguson wanted to lend him out to a Belgian club but the player felt he’d get better football in France. Bastia signed Essien and after three seasons he was signed by Olympique Lyon. Manchester United lost out.

Now, after two seasons at Lyon, Chelsea are about to dish out a large fee for him. Essien has consistently improved and played well with every club he’s joined. Lyon were champions in France last season.

New Lyon boss Gerrard Houllier has been adamant about keeping Essien but recently the player has started to insist for the transfer to Chelsea to take place.

Houllier is fighting a losing battle here and should accept the money. Lyon should find the scout that found Essien and hire him.