Chelsea star John Obi Mikel secretly fathers two children with different women

Chelsea footballer John Obi Mikel has secretly fathered two children with different women, it has emerged today.

The 28-year-old midfielder is dad to a four-year-old son and a one-year-old daughter after short relationships with the women.

The Nigerian international player, whose side lost 2-1 at home to Crystal Palace yesterday, makes sure he provides for his two children.

He is understood to have bought a £500,000 house in 2013 in the Home Counties for his son and mum and is keen to play a part in the boy's life.

A source told The Sun: "John also agreed to give her tens of thousands a year in upkeep and, I think, agreed to give her a new car every three to five years."

Mikel also financially supports his daughter, who was born after the couple met at a London nightclub in 2013.

A friend of the daughter's mum added: "John has provided for her and the girl.

"She seems to have come into money since having the baby and is keeping a low profile."

Mikel is now dating Russian businesswoman Olga Diyachenko and has posted pics of the pair together on social media.

In an interview in Nigeria last year. he revealed: "I've been dating seriously for two years now. I'm in love. I've found love."

A spokesman for the footballer told The Sun: "This is an entirely private matter.

"John provides for and cares for his children and will continue to do so. He asks that their privacy is respected."