10 Most Shocking Hijacked Transfer Deals In Football History
5. John Obi Mikel To Manchester United
Say what you will about John Obi Mikel, but the Nigerian was a solid midfield option for Chelsea during his time at Stamford Bridge, albeit surprisingly not as creative as he has been for the Super Eagles in international competition.
As detailed by The Guardian, back in 2005, the heads at United reckoned they'd signed the player from Norwegian outfit Lyn Oslo, so much so, they announced it. The Red Devils went over Mikel's agent's head to work out a £4m deal and he even showed up to a press conference wearing a United jersey.
The Blues went about things the better way, striking a deal with the agent. And after admitting that he'd joined United under duress, the player put his pen to a Chelsea contract. He had to return to Lyn Oslo, however, following a complaint from the club, and continued to play for them.
He finally joined the Blues in 2006 and they were made to pay both Lyn and United compensation.