I'd be happy - Super Eagles legend Mikel Obi approves signing of fantastic unhappy player at Chelsea

I'd be happy - Super Eagles legend Mikel Obi approves signing of fantastic unhappy player at Chelsea

Izuchukwu Akawor 07:49 - 28.08.2024

Nigeria and Super Eagles legend John Mikel Obi believes that Chelsea are strong in wide positions, but he would be happy to have another quality addition.

Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has shared his thoughts on the ongoing Jadon Sancho saga at Manchester United, as the English winger finds himself linked with a potential move to Stamford Bridge.

Despite attempts to reconcile their differences from last season, Sancho's troubled relationship with United manager Erik ten Hag has resurfaced.

The 24-year-old has been conspicuously absent from United's matchday squads this season, fueling further speculation about his future at Old Trafford.

Mikel, speaking on the situation, expressed admiration for Sancho's talents: "He's a fantastic player," the Nigerian stated. "If we (Chelsea) can get him through the door at Chelsea, I'd be very happy."

Mikel Obi has been quite vocal on about happenings in his former club Chelsea this summer. || X
Mikel Obi has been quite vocal on about happenings in his former club Chelsea this summer. || X

However, Mikel also noted Chelsea's existing depth in wide attacking positions, mentioning recent hat-trick hero Noni Madueke, Mykhailo Mudryk, Pedro Neto, and Christopher Nkunku.

"I think on that side of the pitch, I think we are strong," he added in a video shared on his Instagram page.

Jadon Sancho in pre-season for Manchester United | 433 on X

The former Blue reflected on Sancho's impressive form with Borussia Dortmund last season, which had raised expectations for his return to United.

"Everyone was thinking ok, he's going to come back to the club and the new owners are going to try to make sure that the beef is quashed," Mikel said.

Jadon Sancho and Erik Ten Hag when the going was good. (Photo Credit: Imago)

Despite this, Sancho's discontent at United seems to persist. Mikel speculated, "Whatever happened last season has put him off, maybe working with the same manager."

As negotiations over Sancho's future continue, however, Chelsea are considering Sancho as an opportunity for a swap deal, potentially offering Raheem Sterling in exchange. This proposition is now in Manchester United's court for consideration.

Mikel Obi will be happy to welcome Sancho to Chelsea. || imago
Mikel Obi will be happy to welcome Sancho to Chelsea. || imago

The Sancho situation stems from a public fallout with Ten Hag last season when the manager left him out of the squad for a crucial match against Arsenal.

Sancho's subsequent social media criticism of Ten Hag led to him being exiled from the team and then sent on loan.

Jadon Sancho at Borussia Dortmund (Photo Credit: Imago)

But despite reported reconciliation talks upon his return to United, Sancho's absence from the team sheet this season suggests that underlying issues remain unresolved.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are not the only team interested in the Manchester City academy graduate as Italian giants Juventus have reportedly provided a private jet for the playmaker having entered talks for a potential loan deal with a buy clause, while United are seeking specific conditions, including salary coverage.