Former Super Eagles’ captain, John Mikel Obi has found another option coming his way in the summer transfer window, as newly promoted Benevento of Italy are reportedly keen on signing him this month, megasportsarena.com gathered.
Although the initial focus for Mikel next likely port of call had been Brazil, with Botafogo and Nacional both said to be eager for his services, following his unceremonious exit in March from Trabzonspor of Turkey, the former Chelsea star could be heading to Italy instead.
He now appears set to become the latest Nigerian player heading for the Italian peninsula and likely play in the Serie A next season, alongside Ola Ayna of AS Torino, William Troost-Ekong of Udinese and his former Chelsea colleague, Victor Moses, who is currently on loan at Inter Milan.
This is sequel to emergent news that Benevento have joined the race to snatch Mikel as a free agent, but look better placed than the Brazilian clubs in the hunt for the experienced midfielder, who has also played for Plateau United of Jos, Lyn Oslo of Norway, Tianjin Teda of China and Middleborough of England.
The report by allnygeryasoccer.com added: “Transfer market expert Gianluca Di Marzio writes on his website that Benevento are interested in signing the former Super Eagles captain who is currently a free agent after parting company with Trabzonpor due to coronavirus fears in March.
“The Sorcerers have started rebuilding their squad ahead of their return to the Serie A and are on the brink of confirming the capture of Lille star Loic Remy, who previously wore the colours of Chelsea. Former Porto star Juan Manuel Iturbe and Germany World Cup winner Andrè Schurrle are also on the radar of Benevento with a view to a transfer.
“Brazilian teams Botafogo and Sport Club Internacional were earlier mooted as possible destinations for Mikel but nothing has come of it so far. The two-time World Cupper called time on his international career with the Super Eagles after last year’s Africa Cup of Nations.”