Chelsea 'blocked John Obi Mikel exit'

Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel was reportedly prevented from joining Besiktas this summer.

After falling further down the pecking order under Jose Mourinho last season, Mikel has been repeatedly linked with a move away from the club and Besiktas were rumoured to be leading the chase.

According to Turkish newspaper Radyospor, the Nigerian was prepared to make the switch to Besiktas but the move was blocked after Chelsea failed to agree a deal for Paul Pogba.

Juventus midfielder Pogba was linked with Chelsea and Manchester City, but the Serie A champions fought to keep hold of the Frenchman following the departures of Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo.

Mikel has played in just one of Chelsea's four Premier League games this season.