Ghana midfielder Michael Essien has finalized his move to Greek side Panathinaikos FC by signing a two-year deal, the club announced on Tuesday.
The 32-year-old was available on a free transfer after seeing out an 18-month contract at Italian giants AC Milan.
He was down the pecking order and not was handed a contract extension.
Essien was linked with a move to the MLS with Red Bull New York FC said to be interested.
But Panathinaikos, who won the Greek Super League and qualified for next season’s Champions League managed to convince the former Chelsea midfielder.
A statement on the club’s website: “Panathinaikos FC is delighted to announce that came to an agreement with Michael Essien.
“The Ghanaian midfielder will belong to our Club for the next two years and we welcome him to the family of Panathinaikos.”
Essien will be playing for his sixth European club after representing Bastia, Olympique Lyon and Real Madrid in the past.