Chelsea transfer news: John Obi Mikel to Marseille could trigger Geoffrey Kondogbia to Stamford Bridge in stunning chain reaction of events
Misfit midfielder in talks to join French giants on free transfer next month and could eventually pave way for new Blues signing
CHELSEA could trigger a chain reaction of transfers if John Obi Mikel joins Marseille next month – culminating with the Blues landing Geoffrey Kondogbia from Inter Milan.
Reports claim Mikel’s potential move to France could have a significant impact on the European transfer window, with his switch enabling Marseille to finally sell wantaway midfielder Lassana Diarra to Inter.
Mikel is yet to make an appearance under Antonio Conte and was due to enter the final six months of his contract come January.
But Nigeria boss Gernot Rohr revealed on Sunday that Mikel was on the verge of joining Marseille on a free transfer, saying: “I saw him in London. He is in advanced discussions with Marseille.
“Chelsea will allow him to leave for free. It is a serious option for him.”
New Inter boss Stefano Pioli could now be set to get his hands on veteran Diarra, who enjoyed Premier League spells with the Blues and Arsenal.
The Frenchman’s arrival at the San Siro would then spell the end of Kondogbia’s Inter adventure, with the ex-Monaco ace already way down the pecking order.
Chelsea have been linked with an £18.5million bid as they look to replace China-bound Oscar, although Liverpool are interested as well.