Former Chelsea midfielde Michael Essien arrives in Athens

Michael Essien is in Athens ahead of a planned move to Panathinaikos

The 32-year-old midfielder joins Panathinaikos as a free agent following the conclusion of an 18-month spell in Serie A with Milan

On the same night that Panathinaikos secured a Champions League qualifying spot with a 2-0 win over PAOK Salonica, their fans were given a further boost by a visit from Ghana international midfielder Michael Essien who is expected to join the Athens-based club this week.

The 32-year-old is currently a free agent following the conclusion of an 18-month spell at Milan and is ready to begin the next chapter of his career in Greece.

Essien took time to give interviews to the local media and posed for photographs with several Panathinaikos supporters.

Essien is perhaps best known for his time playing for Chelsea between 2005 and 2014, where he won nine trophies, including two Premier League titles, four FA Cups and the Champions League.

He was also named the Blues' player of the year in 2007 and the scorer of their goal of the season in 2007 and 2009.

Essien spent the 2012-13 season on loan at Real Madrid, before making the switch to Serie A with Milan the following campaign.

However, he found his first-team opportunities limited in Italy and will certainly be hoping to hold down a more regular role at his next club.

According to reports, Essien is going to be offered a two-year-deal worth €1million a year to sign for Panathinaikos.