Monday, 20th August, 2012

Highly-rated defender Cheikhou Kouyate has explained that he has decided to remain at Anderlecht this season, despite interest from a number of English Premier League clubs.

The Senegal international, who featured as part of the African country’s Under-23 side at the 2012 London Olympic Games earlier this summer, has attracted the eyes of Manchester City and Newcastle.

Kouyate’s agent was quick to go on record recently as stating that his phone had been ringing off the hook with enquiries about his client, and not just from Premier League clubs, but also from Turkish and Russian outfits.


The 22-year-old has however taken a pragmatic view of his future and spoke earlier this year to confirm he was not ready to play for a club such as Manchester City, after hearing of the Citizens’ interest.

It is little surprise then that Kouyate has now ruled out quitting Anderlecht this summer.

"I have decided to stay at Sporting [Anderlecht]", the Senegal man told his club’s official website.

"Several players came to speak to me recently and they convinced me to make this choice.

"These are not empty words and everyone should leave me alone; my decision really is final."

The news will be a boost for Anderlecht, who rate Kouyate as one of their most promising talents.

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