Former Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi joined Championship side Middlesbrough a free agent  after ending his association with Chinese Super League club Tianjin Teda in January, but all his efforts to see that they get promoted to Premier League were fruitless as Tony Pulis men ended in the 7th position.

The ambitious midfielder, who is still hungry for more trophies, is back to his free agent status following the conclusion of the 2018-2019 season.

However, reports suggest that the midfielder is a target for two Premier League newcomers Sheffield United and Norwich City.

Norwich won the Championship to gain an automatic promotion to the country's top-flight next season.

As for Sheffield United, they ended the campaign in second position to seal an automatic promotion to the Premier League.

According to reports, both sides are looking at Mikel's direction as part of their mission to have a strong midfield set-up in the upcoming season.

As much as Mikel's desire is to remain with his family in England, the two clubs seem too low for his pedigree and experience.

His ability to dictate play is never in doubt, while his leadership quality is enough to bring co-ordination to any midfield.

Mikel was physically fit and strong in all the games he played with Middlesbrough, hence, his fitness level won't be a problem for his next suitor.

Mikel might need to ignore both clubs if he truly want to add to his trophy collections next season.

This is because neither Sheffield United nor Norwich City stand any chance of winning the Premier League trophy next season.