Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has signed for English Championship side, Middlesbrough on a short term deal until the end of the season.
The 31-year-old became a free agent in November after a two-year spell in China with Tianjin Teda and will boost the promotion chances of the Championship club.
Mikel, who spent 11 seasons at Stamford Bridge, passed his medical with Tony Pulis’ side without a hitch after agreeing personal terms.
The Nigeria international was desperate to seal a move back to England as his wife and two young children remained in the United Kingdom whilst he worked in the Chinese Super League.
Pulis was delighted at the new addition and said: ‘I’m pleased to get him in. He is a man with a lot of experience and quality.
‘He has a winning mentality and he wants to be here be a part of what we are looking to achieve.’
Clubs across Europe were interested in signing Mikel, including Roma and Wolfsburg so this could be regarded as a coup for Boro.
Crystal Palace were another club linked with a move but Mikel will bolster Pulis’ ranks.
A part of the team for more than a decade at Chelsea, Mikel won two Premier League titles, three FA Cups and the League Cup at the club.
He also tasted success on the biggest club stage with the Blues as he won both the Champions League and Europa League during his time in England.
Middlesbrough are currently fifth in the Championship and Mikel is the second signing of the transfer window after Rajiv van La Parra arrived on loan from Huddersfield.
Complete Sports
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