Ghana midfielder Michael Essien told West Ham United officials he is not interested in joining the club as he reached personal terms with AC Milan, GHANAsoccernet.com can exclusively confirm.

The Hammers were among top clubs hoping to secure the signature of the 31-year-old by signing him from Chelsea but Essien reportedly told Chelsea officials he is not interested in a move to the Upton Park.

Essien has made just five appearances for Chelsea since the start of the season and the Blues re-signed midfielder Nemanja Matic from Benfica which means they were ready to allow the experienced Ghanaian leave the club.

West Ham joined Galatasaray, Milan and PSG as clubs hoping to land Essien but he told Chelsea officials he wants to move abroad.

He is expected to finalise a move to AC Milan in the next 24 hours.