DR Congo's Mazembe have stepped up their interest in signing Chelsea midfielder Ibrahim Issaka after failing to retain the services of striker Emmanuel Clottey, Ghanasoccernet.com reported on Thursday.

The 26-year-old midfielder has admitted that he is poised to join four-time African champions Mazembe after getting the attention of coach Lamine N’Diaye when he played as second-half substitute during the team's CAF Champions League group game.

"It's true that TP Mazembe are interested in me," Issaka was quoted as saying. "Once a team is interested in you, then I have to assume that they're ready to sign."

"Mazembe officials have been speaking to the club regularly, and hopefully a deal can be struck soon," he added. "They've spoken to me as well. In the coming weeks, we'll see how it goes."

"I'll urge our fans to continue praying for us because, when the door opens for us, we'll make our country proud," the player concluded. "It will also afford other players the chance to follow in our wake. Everyone wants to make progress in their career."

Ghana's Chelsea are scheduled to host Mazembe in the final group game in the CAF Champions League in Accra on Sunday.

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