Arsenal could turn to former Chelsea star Michael Essien to solve their defensive midfield problems and he will not require any transfer fees July onwards, as the Ghanian international, currently contracted with AC Milan, is not planning to extend his stay at the San Siro beyond the summer when his deal expires, according to the Express.

The Gunners have been struggling in the defensive midfield position over the past few seasons, and ever since the departure of Alex Song to Barcelona, the club have been unable to establish one permanent player in that position. Mikel Arteta, who has led the club as captain on numerous occasions, has been struggling with injuries, and has once again been ruled out for up to a month due to an ankle surgery. The Spaniard has had to adjust his game to suit the role of a defensive midfielder rather than a more central midfield role where he found his best form at Everton. Arlene Wenger has also tried playing players like Francis Coquelin in that position, but has failed to find a permanent solution for the gap although things did look pretty good in that area vs Man City.

Essien began his career at Bastia, but was noticed by bigger clubs after his performances for Lyon. Chelsea then signed him in Jose Mourinho’s first successful spell at Stamford Bridge, and Essien played nearly a decade at the West London club. After a loan spell at Real Madrid, his time at Chelsea was over, and the 32-year old signed for Milan.