Perhaps looking to reinforce their sparse backline, Real Madrid have reached out to Chelsea to obtain defender Michael Essien on a year-long loan, according to reports Friday.

The 29-year-old Ghana national was rumored to be on the move to Arsenal, but Blues manager Roberto di Mattoe said Essien was looking for a temporary change, just not to a rival, according to the Daily Mail.

The talks have reached an advanced stage according to Sky Sports News.

Essien joined Chelsea in 2005 and has made 163 appearances and scored 17 goals during his tenure. He has also made 52 appearances for Ghana's national team since 2002.

Speculation also suggests Real expressed interest in Lille defender Mathieu Debuchy, for the tune of £9.5 million.

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