Ghana's Michael Essien has urged Freddy Adu to join him in playing for both the Black Stars and Chelsea.

The D.C United striker has been one of the most talked about starlets of recent years, with the future of the 17-year-old, both domestically and internationally, remaining in some doubt.

Adu has represented USA at various levels but has not made his senior bow and he is now mulling over an offer to represent his native Ghana.

Ghana's impressive World Cup campaign could convince Adu to make the switch.

And Essien, one of Ghana's key midfielders, has spoken of his admiration for the hugely promising hit-man and in the process, pleaded with him to join Chelsea.

Essien is urging a switch to West London even though it has been widely speculated that Manchester United and Chelsea will be at the forefront of the queue if, and when, DC United decide to cash in.

''Freddy is a really good young player,'' Essien said on Sunday.

''I hope he joins me at Chelsea. It would make me very happy.

''It's now up to him to decide which country he wants to play for - and he would be more than welcome in our team.

''He's a good player, who has more to learn.''