Man Utd and Chelsea target Boubakary Soumare drops verdict on completing January transfer
Manchester United and Chelsea transfer target Boubakary Soumare has revealed his stance on moving in January, claiming that he’s happy at Lille, and so doesn’t plan to sign for either Ole Gunnar Solskjaer or Frank Lampard this month.
Man Utd target Boubakary Soumare scores unreal goal for Lille
Manchester United and Chelsea have been targeting 20-year-old Lille star Boubakary Soumare this month, as both teams aim to inject some youth into their midfields. But, Soumare has told Lille fans that he won’t be leaving the Ligue 1 club this month.
Man Utd and Chelsea transfer news: Boubakary Soumare drops January move verdict from Lille (Image: GETTY Images)
He insisted that he’s happy at Lille for now, and wants to continue for the rest of the season as they continue to fight for a place in next season’s Champions League.
Soumare has also told manager Christophe Galtier that he doesn’t want to leave while he’s still learning his trade.
“I do not see myself leaving. I feel good here,” Soumare told L’Equipe.
“I am learning. We have big objectives to attain, like qualification for the Champions League. A departure is not on the cards.
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“I feel good, my team-mates help me. It is not the time to leave. I do not want to leave with any regrets.
“I have already had discussions with the coach. I told him very clearly.
“I have a very precise idea of where I want to go in my career. I know today where I am. And I like being here."
Soumare was also asked about a potential move to Real Madrid. But, the midfielder quickly revealed he wouldn’t be lured by the Santiago Bernabeu.
Man Utd and Chelsea transfer news: Soumare has made 18 Ligue 1 appearances this season (Image: GETTY Images)
“But I don’t know if I will need to take a middle step, quite simply because I am not looking to leave right now. I am focused on Lille and the France Under-21s.”
Soumare is predominantly a defensive midfielder for Lille, although he has been used in a more advanced position.
He’s made 18 league appearances for the club this season, while also featuring in all six Champions League fixtures.