John Obi Mikel tracked by Galatasaray

Galatasaray are reportedly confident of persuading Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel to swap Stamford Bridge for Istanbul this summer.

Mikel endured an injury-hit season under interim boss Rafael Benitez which included just 19 starts, falling down a congested midfield pecking order with the Blues.

The Nigerian international is one of just five players left from Jose Mourinho's first spell in charge of Chelsea, but is thought to be considering a move in search of regular first-team football.

Despite being under contract in West London until 2017, Gala sporting director Bulent Tulun has claimed that the Turkish giants have the resources to sign Mikel in the close season, according to The Mirror.

Any decision on Mikel's long-term future is on hold until next month, with the defensive midfielder currently on Confederations Cup duty with Nigeria.