Michael Essien is set to become Melbourne Victory’s second marquee for the upcoming season, according to a report by Fox Sports.
The news was announced by News Corp on Wednesday, revealing that the ex-AC Milan player had been without a club since leaving Panathinaikos in the off-season.
Football Federation Australia chief executive David Gallop confirmed the formal request to get Essien on side.
“Melbourne Victory can confirm it has made inquiries about securing former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien as a full season guest marquee player for the 2016-17 A-League season,” a Victory spokesman said.
If all goes ahead, Essien will be one of Kevin Muscat’s marquee stars, alongside Besart Berisha.
“Essien is one of a number of high-profile foreign players the club has investigated during the pre-season, as it looks to bolster its squad for the upcoming campaign,” the spokesman said.
“The club will advise if there is any further development on this matter.”
The 33-year-old played with Bastia in the French league and went on the play in Lyon, before going on to star in the Premier League with Chelsea FC.