New AC Milan coach, Clarence Seedorf, has expressed his excitement to have added Michael Essien to his squad.

The Chelsea midfielder has agreed an 18-month contract at San Siro after successfully passing his medical, and the clubs already agreeing on a supposedly free deal for the 31-year-old on Friday.

Essien is Seedorf’s first signing since taking charge of the Rossonieri and the Milan boss was delighted to add a player with so much experience to his squad.

"I know him very well", Seedorf said in his pre-match conference on Sunday.

“He’s a warrior with a lot of experience.

“I’m happy with Essien’s arrival. He’ll play in the middle even if he can also operate as a full back but I always like to see players in their best position.

"He will also bring big values on and off the pitch. He's a guy with personality that will be useful for the team."

Essien himself thanked his former club and manager, Jose Mourinho, who allowed him to move to Milan.

"I spoke with Mr (Clarence) Seedorf two days ago. I cannot wait to be available,” Essien said.

"I really want to thank the chairman and the team and thanks to Jose Mourinho, who has allowed me to wear the Rossoneri shirt."

Essien won eight major trophies with Chelsea after arriving in 2005, but he struggled to find back to his old form after a few serious knee injuries between 2008 and 2011. After returning from a loan stint at Real Madrid, the Ghana international only started in two Premier League games for the Blues this season.

Chlesea boss, Jose Mourinho, said on Friday that he would be happy for Essien to stay, but due to the respect for the player, Chelsea won’t stop him from moving.

"If he stays we will be more than happy,” Mourinho said.

"He is a fantastic club man and a fantastic team player.

"But if something big comes for him he is another one who we feel we must show the respect, and to show him the respect is not to stop him from going."

Can Essien revive his career at San Siro? Have your say in the comment section below.