Wednesday, 11th December, 2013
A long-time target for a number of Premier League clubs, Anderlecht defender Cheikhou Kouyate has ruled out making a move in the January transfer window, despite now possessing the passport which will enable him to realise his English dream.
Kouyate has been linked with Arsenal, having claimed Arsene Wenger has been on his tail for some time, while Newcastle and Southampton are also attentive to his talents.
The defender boosted his stock further turning out for Senegal at the London 2012 Olympics, however that year and until recently, a dream move to England was off the agenda as Kouyate could not qualify for a work permit.
Now though the Anderlecht star has bagged himself a Belgian passport and as a result can move to the Premier League without issue.
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But the defender has reassured Anderlecht that he is not about to jump ship in the January transfer window.
"I want to finish the season here", Kouyate told DH.
"I want to win the title with Anderlecht and even if this is not the case I nevertheless want to continue.
"I do not want to leave this team. I intend to transfer at the end of the season."
Anderlecht rate Kouyate at around the €5m mark and the Senegalese has done his case for a move no harm by turning in a number of accomplished performances in the Champions League for the side this term. He was though sent off in last night's 3-1 loss at Olympiacos.
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