Rennes signing Kamaldeen Sulemana admits Chelsea great Michael Essien helped convince him about a move to France.

Sulemana left FC Nordsjaellands last week, choosing Rennes over interest from Manchester United and an offer from Ajax.

He revealed, "I talked to Essien about it all. He told me about Ligue 1. It is one of the strongest leagues in Europe, so I see it as a good opportunity for me.

"I will get playing time in Rennes, and probably more than I would get most other places."

Essien is an assistant coach on the staff at FCN.