Reports in London says that English champions, Chelsea have agreed a ?23 million deal with Lyon for Black Stars midfielder Michael Essien.

According to The Mirror , Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon flew to Lyon yesterday to broker a deal for the Black Stars player which will see the Premiership champions pay ?21m up front and a further ?2m if they win the Champions League.

Michael Essien, 23, is expected to fly to London to complete a medical and also finalise personal terms after being offered a five-year deal worth ?60,000 a week.

However Essien?s agent Fabien Piveteau has denied the newspaper reports but insists Essien will be in action for Lyon against Auxerre.

Essien's agent Fabien Piveteau told BBC Sport: "It's not possible because Michael does not have a visa and he needs a visa to travel to England.

"When the clubs agree then he will get a visa to go to Chelsea for a medical."

Reports say Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon has travelled to Lyon to complete a deal, reported to be worth about ?21m.

But Piveteau added: "Maybe he will come tomorrow, but for now he is waiting for an answer from Lyon."

Essien has voiced his desire to move to Stamford Bridge but so far the clubs have been unable to agree a fee.