Reports linking UAE giants Al Ain with an imminent swoop for Ghana midfielder Michael Essien from Chelsea have been described as false.

It had emerged over the past weekend that the UAE league champions had launched a bid to secure the services of the Ghanaian star but an Al Ain source close to Abu Dhabi-based leading daily sports newspaper Sport360° has reported that a move is highly unlikely.

The reports claimed that it was his Ghana colleague – and international captain – Asamoah Gyan who ‘mooted the idea to Al Ain officials who are seeking replacement for out-of-form midfielder Mirel Radoi’ and that negotiations were at an advanced stage with the club willing to offer a $200,000 tax free weekly wage to the bison.

Speculation surrounding Essien’s future was ignited by the 31-year-old’s agent Fabien Piveteau admitting the player could move this January.

The agent hinted that his client’s preferred destination would be a Champions or Europa League team.

Essien is believed to be eager to increase his playing time ahead of this summer’s World Cup in Brazil, where he will be representing Ghana.