The founder of the Right to Dream Academy, Tom Vernon, has revealed Sir Alex Ferguson was so intrigued after seeing John Mikel Obi he described him as the "next Zidane."

The former Manchester United boss tried to sign the ex-Nigeria international for the Red Devils before the midfielder eventually signed for Chelsea.

Vernon worked as a scout for Man United before going on to set up the Right to Dream Academy.

There were reports he played a role in United's strong interest in the Nigerian, who Ferguson was keen in signing for the Premier League side.

"[In the early 2000s AFCON] Obi was a No.10 and Sir Alex saw him and referred to him as the next Zidane," he told Joy Sports in an interview.

"He was playing as 10 and just looked like a different player to the one that we got know to who is obviously still a great player but he was more offensive and they were so excited about him.

"Then he changed his mind and went to Chelsea and the rest is history."

Mikel played 372 matches for the Blues scoring six goals and providing 13 assists winning the Champions League and a host of other trophies at the London club.