Michael Essien claims to have been assured by Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas that the club will allow him to move to Stamford Bridge, according to the Sun newspaper.
Essien said: “I know directors of both clubs are to see each other again in the next few days.
“I have the chairman’s word that he will do everything to find an agreement with Chelsea as soon as possible.
“If it happens during the tour of South Korea, I will return immediately to join my new team. I now have confidence about the outcome of the negotiations.�?