Report: Chelsea line up Axel Witsel as John Obi Mikel replacement

Chelsea are interested in signing Zenit St Petersburg midfielder Axel Witsel, according to reports.

The Belgian midfielder has been linked with a move away from Russia in this window, with Manchester United said to be keen.

The Express claims that Blues boss Jose Mourinho wants to sell John Obi Mikel this summer and replace him with Witsel, who could cost around £24m.

Mikel played only 26 times for Chelsea last season and reportedly has interest from the Middle East and Turkey.