Michael Essien´s arrival at Stamford Bridge looks to have put an end to Tiago´s stay in West London as the midfielder is in France discussing a move to Lyon.
Champions Chelsea have agreed a fee of €10 million (£6.8 million) with their French counterparts, with the player now only having to concur on personal terms before his exit can be confirmed.
Tiago and his agent, Jorge Mendes, are already in Lyon - where the player will undergo a medical and tie up the final details of his contract.
The talented Portugal international proved a useful performer last term for Chelsea, regularly filling in a variety of positions across Jose Mourinho´s midfield following a move from Benfica, but it now appears his spell in the capital is drawing to a close.
"All is practically closed and it is the best exit for Tiago as he wants to play more regularly,´´ confirmed Mendes.
With the 2006 World Cup on the horizon, Tiago is desperate to play on a regular basis to cement his place in Portugal´s squad - aware that Essien´s arrival is likely to severely restrict his opportunities at Chelsea.
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En clair, ils disent qu´il est avec son agent à Lyon, qu´il passe la visite médicale et qui finalisent le contrat avec les dirigeants lyonnais
Ils disent qu´avec la concurrence forte à Chelsea, le joueur a besoin d´etre titulaire pour la coupe du Monde
Donc Tiago à Lyon 