Victory close in on Essien: reports

Melbourne Victory are reportedly close to signing former Chelsea star Michael Essien for the upcoming A-League season.

Victory have been in talks with the former African Footballer of the Year and he could even could play in this month's FFA Cup quarter-final against Bentleigh Greens if he passes a medical, according to Fairfax Media.

"Melbourne Victory can confirm it has made enquiries about securing former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien as a full season guest marquee player for the 2016/17 season", the club said.

The 33-year-old Ghana midfielder scored 17 goals in 168 matches for Chelsea, and most recently played for Panathinaikos in Greece.