Essien joins Panathinaikos

Panathinaikos have announced the signing of Michael Essien on a free transfer.

The Ghana international had been plying his trade at AC Milan but his contract with the Serie A side was set to expire at the end of the month.

Consequently, he was clear to commit to a two-year contract with Panathinaikos, much to the midfielder's delight.

"I am very happy that I am here and that I will continue my career with Panathinaikos," Essien told the Greek club's official website on Tuesday.

"I am looking forward to meeting my new team and to winning trophies with my new team-mates.

"I want to give back the love that everyone has shown me and to thank the fans that welcomed me so warmly."

Essien joined Milan from Chelsea in January 2014, after a season-long loan at Real Madrid.

The 32-year-old failed to nail down a regular starting berth during his time at San Siro, making just 20 Serie A appearances in total for the Rossoneri.