Lyon coach Gerard Houllier has hinted that Michael Essien could join Chelsea next season instead of signing for Jose Mourinho's side this season. The Ghana international was voted player of the Ligue 1 last season and has made a big impact for Lyon since signing from Bastia in 2003, attracting attention from many clubs across Europe.

Premiership champions Chelsea have shown particular interest in the midfielder, having ?17million and ?18m bids rejected during the summer.

Tell us your view ? Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has slapped a ?30m price tag on Essien who revealed his desire to leave the four-time French champions for the Premier league giants earlier this week.

However Chelsea have yet to match the ?30m request of Aulas.

Essien insisted he would not take part in Lyon's South Korea tour but was included in the squad and travelled with the team to Asia on Wednesday as Houllier said he was optimistic that his lynchpin midfielder would stay at the club for now at least.

"It's not impossible that the transfer of Michael will remain blocked for next year," he told L'Equipe.

"This is a solution that would suit everyone. Michael is only 22 and can still progress a lot in a club (Lyon) where his managers, coaches and supporters like him a lot."