Former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel set for English return

Nigeria international John Obi Mikel is on the verge of a sensational transfer to Championship promotion contenders Middlesbrough.

The former Chelsea man has been a free agent since leaving Chinese Super League side Tianjin TEDA F.C. in January and has been quick to find himself a new home.

It is reported that Mikel has completed the first half of his two-day medical with the Teesside club, and is likely to sign on the dotted line in the next 24 hours when he finalises the second half tomorrow.

The 31-year-old has been talking to a number of clubs in Europe but is rumoured to prefer the option of a return to England over a move to another European country.

It seems likely that manager Tony Pulis has played his part in convincing the former Premier League title winner that the Championship is his best option with Boro sitting in the play-off places.

The capture of Mikel signals huge intent by Middlesbrough but could come at a cost, as a number of rotation players may have to leave to facilitate the midfielder’s hefty wage demands.

These casualties could include Grant Leadbitter, Adam Clayton, and even striker Ashley Fletcher. Club icon Stewart Downing may also been on the way out after stand-off talks with Pulis over a clause in the winger’s contract.

The clause states that if he plays one more game then the former England international will be entitled to a wage increase. This has led to the former Aston Villa player to be told to find another club or sign a new contract with them and remove the clause.

Pulis’ men host Newport County this weekend in their fourth-round FA Cup clash before facing promotion rivals West Brom at the Hawthorns on 2nd February.

Middlesbrough are currently 5th in the league, six points off the automatic promotion places.