AJ Auxerre striker Lassine Sinayoko has revealed why he is unlikely to end up at Middlesbrough or Coventry City this month.
L’Yonne Republicaine have an interview with the striker today in which he explains all about the transfer interest from the Championship duo.
Reports have linked the striker with a move away from Auxerre over the last year. Those same reports even linked Manchester United at one point.
Now there appears to be serious attempts coming from the Championship. Reports in England have linked Coventry and Middlesbrough with the Ligue 1 forward this week.
That came because the 26-year-old’s contract was due to expire in the summer. Such a situation made him a potential cheap option in January. Likewise, they could also discuss a pre-contract agreement with him for the summer transfer window.
How the situation has changed for Middlesbrough & Coventry City
Both sides are currently vying for promotion to the Premier League. Coventry sit top of the table; Middlesbrough are three points behind in second. Lassine Sinayoko could be a welcome addition to boost their hopes of going up in the top two.
Sinayoko, though, has now signed a new contract with the French side. That contract runs until 2027, with the option of a further year. The striker has signed that to ensure his club get a fee at some point, should he depart. That’s at least if his comments are anything to go by anyway.
Lassine Sinayoko wants to respect AJ Auxerre
Lassine Sinayoko
Lassine Sinayoko wants to respect AJ Auxerre
“If I have to leave one day, it will be in the best possible way,” he said.
“I’d been thinking about it and discussing it for a while, the decision had already been made for some time, and we were waiting for the right moment to announce it.
“I didn’t want to leave like a thief; I wanted to give back to Auxerre everything they’ve given me, and I knew that by extending my contract, I could both help the club and myself because it provides security.
“When you play without contractual security, you can’t reach your full potential. You’re always wondering, “What if I get injured? What will happen to me?” The uncertainty weighs heavily on your mind. I’m someone who thinks a lot, and I didn’t want it to affect me and impact my football.”
Lassine Sinayoko does not sound like his mind is on Middlesbrough or Coventry City.