Chelsea transfer news: Andre Villas-Boas plotting move for out of favour Jon Obi Mikel
Former Stamford Bridge chief is keen to bring Nigerian star to his Chinese Super League side Shanghai SIPG
A FORMER Chelsea boss is plotting a reunion with Jon Obi Mikel in China.
Andre Villas-Boas, who managed the Blues for a brief spell in the 2011/12 season, wants the out-of-favour Nigerian for his new side Shanghai SIPG.
The Portuguese coach replaced Sven-Goran Eriksson as boss of the Chinese Super League side three weeks ago.
And the 29-year-old Nigerian has emerged as one of his top targets.
Mikel joined Chelsea in 2006 but looks likely to end his stay at Stamford Bridge when his contract expires at the end of this season.
The veteran is still yet to feature under Antonio Conte this campaign.
And it is looking unlikely he will be offered an extension to his deal.
French side Marseille are also interested in the Blues stalwart.
But the financial power of Shanghai, one of the richest sides in China, would allow them to offer the experienced star a much more lucrative deal.