John Mikel Obi: 'I was offered £53k cash at 15 by agent
John Obi Mikel's career was no doubt one of the brightest among Nigerian players that plied their trade in Europe.
His talent caught the eye of top European clubs including Man United, Chelsea, Barcelona and Real Madrid at the age of 15.
Mikel's move to Stamford Bridge was full of controversy after initially signing for United before the issue was intervened by the Premier League board.
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The former Nigerian international has now come out to reveal what really transpired between himself and an agent from an unknown club.
"I had agents promising me everything. One approached me in the hotel with a briefcase full of cash.
“I can’t remember what club he claimed to represent — but I do remember the briefcase.
“It was crammed with $70,000 (£53,000) and he offered me that to sign some contract before adding: ‘Sign here and you’ll get a lot more’.
“I was tempted. I’d never seen so much money but I told the Nigerian FA secretary who was looking after me.
“He told me to ignore this agent but promised I would join the best club. After the tournament I went home to my family and then saw the secretary again in Abuja.
“That’s when he told me: ‘You’re going to United. They want you and you’re leaving tomorrow’.
“My dad was so happy but mum was crying because I was moving abroad at such a young age.”
The ex-Super Eagles captain finally joined Jose Mourinho during his first spell at Chelsea with legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson disappointed for changing his mind.
Mikel went on to win the Champions League and Europa League, as well as two Premier League titles, four FA Cups and two League Cups in his 11 years in west London.
He presently plays in the Turkish Super Lig with Trabzonspor after having brief spells with Tiajin Teda and Middlesbrough after he left Chelsea.
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Meanwhile, Legit.ng had earlier reported that Kelechi Iheanacho who is currently making waves with second placed Premier League side, Leicester City, wished Wilfred Ndidi a happy birthday in a unique way.
Ndidi clocked 23 on Monday, December 16, and Iheanacho made a video to celebrate the midfielder while he approached his N23million 2015 Range Rover Sport.
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Source: Legit.ng
