Essien is enjoying his loan spell at Real Madrid as he has been impressive

English side Arsenal could table a bid to sign Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien from rivals Chelsea next season, says a report in the English press.

Coach Arsene Wenger reportedly turned down the chance to sign the midfielder but could still make a move for the player next summer.

Arsenal were said to be interested in the 28-year-old last month and were given the green light by Chelsea to make a move to seal the deal.

But Wenger decided against pursuing a deal culminating in with Essien joining Real Madrid on a season-long loan on transfer deadline day instead.

The Frenchman decided to keep faith with Abou Diaby in midfielder, despite the £15m sale of Alex Song to Barcelona.

Wenger, however, remains an admirer of the former Lyon midfielder, who won two Premier League titles, the Champions League and four FA Cups whilst at Stamford Bridge, and could make a move next summer.

It is understood that Real have no option to buy Essien and are not interested in a permanent deal.

Essien has been impressive during his short stint at the Bernebeu but it is thought he is not part of Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo’s long-term plans at Stamford Bridge.