Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien joined Spanish champions Real Madrid on a season-long loan, the west London club confirmed in a statement on their website.
The 29-year-old Ghana international will rejoin former Blues boss Jose Mourinho, who brought him to Stamford Bridge in 2005, at the Bernabeu.
The combative midefielder made 247 appearances for Chelsea over seven seasons, scoring 25 goals and twice winning the club's goal of the season award.
He also helped the club to two Premier League titles, four FA Cups and last season's Champions League title.
Source: AFP
