Toulouse block Mathieu move

Left-back told he must see out final year of contract

By Patrick Haond   Last updated: 12th July 2008

Toulouse block Mathieu move

Mathieu: Move blocked

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Toulouse have re-affirmed their desire to keep hold of defender Jeremy Mathieu, despite his desire to join rivals Bordeaux.

The left-back is desperate to seal a switch to Bordeaux, who would reportedly pay €4.5million (£3.6million) to secure his services.

The player only has a year left on his current contract and will be able to leave on a free transfer next year, but Toulouse still insist he will not be allowed to depart this summer.

A club statement said: "For TFC, Jeremy Mathieu is a key player. TFC has made the choice of game quality rather than the financial income proposed by Bordeaux. TFC hope Les Girondins have noted the decision."

Toulouse chairman Olivier Sadran has also voiced his refusal to let the player leave - a decision which has left Mathieu frustrated.

Second choice

The player told L'Equipe: "I would like to play at Bordeaux. I had a phone call with coach Laurent Blanc, who explained to me that he wanted Mikael Silvestre. He hoped to sign him, and I was the second choice.

"I have now become his first choice. I talked about it with new Toulouse coach Alain Casanova, and he told me he wouldn't refuse my departure.

"I talked with my chairman who proposed to me a two-year extension, but I refused, I have to leave this year.

"I can't understand my chairman. I have just one year remaining on my contract, I will be a free agent next term. If he wants to get some money on my transfer, it is now.

"Bordeaux offers €4.5million and Toulouse refuse? You have to explain that to me.

"I have been at Toulouse for three years, I want to improve. I have been too kind. What should I do for my officials to understand I want to leave? If I have to put my-self apart from the group, I am keen to do it."