After ‘months of negotiation’, Michael Essien joins Indonesian side

Former Chelsea and Ghana midfielder Michael Essien has joined Indonesian side Persib Bandung.

The 34-year-old, who has also played for Bastia, Lyon, Real Madrid, AC Milan and Panathinaikos during his illustrious career, has signed a one-year deal with the option of an extension.

Essien told the club's official website: "Thank you for bringing me here. I'm excited and want to give my best."

Teddy Tjahyono, part of the Persib Bandung management, added: "The reason to bring Michael Essien is in order to increase the value of competition in Indonesia. Opening the door to the other world players to strengthen the team in Indonesia.

"The process to bring in players to this part of the world is quite difficult. It took months to negotiate."