The career of Nigerian international John Obi Mikel at English Premiership champions Chelsea is about to come to an end, according to feelers from Stamford Bridge.

A report in Britain’s Daily Express has it that Chelsea’s manager Jose Mourinho is considering a move for Zenit St Petersburg’s £24 million Belgium midfielder Axel Witsel as a replacement for Mikel. Though the immensely gifted Nigerian midfielder failed to make the starting line-up for much of last season, Chelsea want him to stay but he prefers to move for a bigger pay cheque.

“Mourinho has identified the defensive midfielder as one of the men he wants to improve his options, with long-serving John Obi Mikel looking likely to leave Stamford Bridge amid interest from Turkey and the Middle East,” the report said.

“Chelsea are also planning a move for Augsburg fullback Baba Rahman. The 20-year-old Ghanaian has been watched for some time by Chelsea scouts, who have provided glowing reviews,” the report said.

•Photo shows Mikel in Chelsea colours.