News that Tottenham made an approach for Moussa Sissoko in the summer surfaced earlier today and the Frenchman spurned their advances to remain on Tyneside.
In a recent interview with Foot Mercato (reported by HITC), Sissoko’s agent confirmed that a number of clubs were interested in signing him this summer. He also claimed Tottenham had made an approach for his client and they were willing to pay up to £17million for his services.
Although Sissoko stayed, his agent has opened the door for a possible exit next summer instead. Newcastle wanted to keep hold of Sissoko but that may not be possible it seems. This is what his agent had to say on the matter:
“The reasons why Moussa did not leave are simple. Newcastle count a lot on him. He is a strong part of their team. They did not want to separate from him during this transfer window.
They wanted to keep him for another year. Then, with next year being the Euros, it will also be the time to make a decision.
“Like all players in the French national team, he went for stability. He did not want to clash (with Newcastle), nor did he want to join a team where he might potentially receive less playing time. These two situations were possible for him. He made the decision to stay at Newcastle this year. He will see with the agreement of Newcastle what he will do. The president let us know that he wanted to keep Moussa.”
The club had offered him the right to leave. But they changed their tune during the transfer window.
He added: “Between the sales and the arrivals and the desire to keep a competitive team, to let go of one of their best players in the team which would have altered the spirit in the camp.
“Between receiving €25m for Moussa and losing him, they made their choice quickly. Newcastle know that he is one of the top ten central midfielders in England. All that meant that the club did not foresee a transfer this summer.”
Sissoko was perfectly happy to stay at Newcastle, despite the heavy interest he attracted during the summer. The French international wants to play regular first-team football this season in order to maintain his place in the Didier Deschamps’ France squad and play at Euro 2016. He is enjoying his time on Tyneside and is in no rush to depart the club.
Foot Mercato also claim Sissoko is in-line for a new and improved contract.
So, what do you make of Sissoko’s willingness to stay on Tyneside and what do you value him at? Let us know!
