John Obi Mikel may be offered a new deal

John Obi Mikel was signed by Chelsea in 2006 from Lyn Oslo. The Nigerian, whose transfer was filled with controversy, has mostly been a squad player for the club in the last ten years.

Chelsea considering to renew Mikel's contract

However, after finding it difficult to get any playing time under Jose Mourinho and on the verge of exit last summer, the Nigerian has been a key component of Interim manager Guus Hiddink's side. The Dutchman has preferred Mikel over Matic, a situation which was unthinkable last season.

It seems the timing of his involvement in the starting eleven has been perfect for the Chelsea midfielder. The Chelsea management is pondering about giving the Nigerian a new contract which is due to expire in the next 15 months. His regular involvement in the team has put a thought into the minds of the management that Mikel can be useful player even now.

Mikel, who scored the vital away goal in Chelsea's last Champions league match, has been a revelation under Guus Hiddink. The Dutchman prefers to keep his team solid and organized and has identified Mikel as the player to provide the perfect foundation for the same.

The emergence of the Nigerian as a key member of the midfield may tempt the Blues management to gift the defensive midfielder a new contract.