Sporting Director of IFK Goteborg Mats Gren has confirmed their interest in signing Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien.

GHANAsoccernet.com reported earlier today (Wednesday) that four clubs in the Swedish top flight are locked in a battle to acquire the services of the 35-year-old enforcer.

According to the report, though IFK Göteborg, Malmo FF, FF Djurgarden and Hammarby IF have registered their interests in the player, it is IFK Goteborg who looks to be closing in on a deal with the former Chelsea ace.

"He is a very good player. Moreover, we need players in that position," Mats Gren said.

This news has been further strengthened by a statement from a Swedish agent , Hamid Kabodvand.

"This is serious. Essien needs a minute to play and restore his condition. Allsvenskan (Swedish League) will be perfect for him," Kabodvand told Sportbladet.

Essien is a free agent after his contract was terminated by Indonesian side Persib Bandung.

He was declared surplus to requirements following the arrival of two foreign players.