Milan have targeted Chelsea’s midfield dynamo Michael Essien, according to Italian reports.

The Rossoneri are reported to be clearing out some of their older players including Gennaro Gattuso (33), Clarence Seedorf (35), Andrea Pirlo (32), and Massimo Ambrosini (34).

However, while Chelsea are planning similar cuts, it is not thought that Essien will be one of the names on Carlo Ancelotti’s list of available players.

Milan Coach Massimiliano Allegri sees the 28-year-old ace as the player to add steel to his midfield and is prepared to test Chelsea’s resolve to hang on to him.

Essien’s Ghana team-mate and current Milan midfielder Kevin Prince Boateng is believed to have held talks with his fellow countryman to try and persuade him to make the switch to Serie A.