French chief opens door to January exit for Newcastle United target

The door is open for reported Newcastle United target Stephane Diarra to leave Le Mans, according to the club’s president.

By Liam Kennedy

Published 22nd Nov 2019, 16:45 BST- 1 min read

Le Mans' French midfielder Gussouma Fofana (L) and French forward Stephane Diarra (R) celebrate aftre winning the French Ligue Cup round of 32 football match between Le Mans FC and OGC Nice on October 30, 2019 in Le Mans. (Photo by JEAN-FRANCOIS MONIER / AFP) (Photo by JEAN-FRANCOIS MONIER/AFP via Getty Images)

Speaking in the French press Le Mans’ chief Thierry Gomez has revealed the club are yet to receive any offers for the 20-year-old, despite interest from United and Premier League rivals Everton.

And while Gomez does not want to lose the Ligue 2 star – he accepts that if the right move came about, Diarra would leave with Le Mans’ blessing.

“For now, we haven’t received any offer. Stephane also knows where he comes from. If anything were to happen, it would be with our support,” he said.

“The subject isn’t relevant now. We’re entering a month that can bring up a lot of hope but also a lot of danger, so let’s stay focused on the next games, including the one against Caen on Friday night.”