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Victory close in on Essien

Essien’s arrival is said to be in response to Victory’s rivals Melbourne City signing former Millwall and Everton star Tim Cahill.

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The club confirmed on Wednesday night that the Ghanian was one of several big-name players they are running the rule over before the new season starts next month.

Essien, a former African Player of the Year, is in advanced discussions with Kevin Muscat’s side to be the club’s guest marquee signing.

Latest developments say the midfielder will join Victory under the new Football Federation Australia guest-marquee rule, the Accra-born having met the necessary criteria.

Essien, 33, is now a free agent after leaving Panathinaikos earlier this year and the Herald Sun reports he is set to join Victory as their guest marquee.

News Limited reported that Victory were deep in negotiations with the midfielder and just personal terms remained to be agreed.

Under the guest marquee rule, FFA will provide financial assistance to clubs that want to bring in a high-profile player outside of the salary cap who will add to the A-League’s marketability.

However, it was with Chelsea where Essien made his name as one of the worlds best central midfielders.

Chelsea won the race to win his signature and he spent nine years at Stamford Bridge, twice winning the Premier League and the Champions League once.

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The Ghanian worldwide has also enjoyed spells at AC Milan, Real Madrid and Lyon over a decorated 16-year professional club career.

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