John Obi Mikel, Nigerian star, confirms talks with Brazilian club Botafogo
- John Obi Mikel edges closer to joining Brazilian club Botafogo
- The 32-year-old has been without a club since he parted ways with Turkish side Trabzonspor last month
- Mikel could seal the deal if all terms are right in the coming days
Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel confirmed that he is close to joining Brazilian topflight side Botafogo.
The Chelsea legend became clubless following his public criticism of the Turkish football body over their refusal to suspend the Super Lig in the wake of deadly coronavirus.
He was said to have taken his post down by his former club Trabzonspor but the midfielder insisted he would not and both parties severed ties with one more year on his contract.
Mikel joined the Turkish side in the summer of 2019 after helping Nigeria win bronze medal at the Africa Cup of Nations staged in Egypt.
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The former Middlesbrough star revealed that the club's representatives have been in contact with him and a deal could be reached soon.
Botafogo are said to have made the Nigerian their prime target after failing to bring ex-Barcelona and Manchester City player Yaya Toure to Rio de Janeiro club.
“Yes there has been an interest and yes there have been negotiations,” Mikel told ESPN. "But I don’t know yet. I am still thinking about it. Not sure yet.”
Before quitting Trabzonspor last month, Mikel made 27 appearances for them in all competition but failed to find the back of the net.
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Meanwhile, Complete Sports reports that Botafogo have already completed the signing of Japanese playmaker Keisuke Honda joining on a free transfer in January.
Brazil’s major football competitions have been suspended since mid-March because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Legit.ng earlier reported that former Nigerian star Dosu Joseph has blamed John Obi Mikel for his decision to criticise the Turkish football authority on social media.
The Chelsea legend called the Super Lig authorities out following their refusal to suspend the topflight in the wake of deadly coronavirus pandemic.
No fewer than 649 people have died of COVID-19 while over 30,000 cases have been recorded since the infection broke out.
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Source: Legit.ng
