The Ligue 1 kicked-off last weekend and, as every summer, it looses key players. Yet, France could see many footballers depart before the the transfer window closes in August 31, at 11pm.
SunSport runs through the top five players who could leave France late this window.
Blaise Matuidi (Paris SG)
With Paris since 2011, Matuidi, 29, is under contract until 2018 with the Ligue 1 reigning champions.
The midfielder started on the bench last weekend with new boss Unai Emery now in the hot seat. Matuidi has been linked with Juventus after the departure of Paul Pogba for a world-record transfer of £89million to Manchester United.
Chelsea and United were linked with the player but nothing serious has emerged.
Diego Rolan (Bordeaux)
The 23-year-old Uruguayan striker scored last weekend in Bordeaux’s opening game against Saint-Etienne (3-2), but he stays mysterious on his future, although being contracted until 2018.
Lazio and Schalke, who saw Leroy Sane move to Manchester City for £37m this month, are reportedly interested to sign Rolan.
Lassana Diarra (Marseilles)
The departure of the Marseilles midfielder was almost guaranteed in May when he said on French TV l’Equipe 21 thanks to a clause in his contract “I am free”. But Diarra, 31, is still with the club and was given the captain arm-band last weekend when the Ligue 1 kicked-off.
Though, his profile is very much appreciated in Italy and if the correct offer comes up, Diarra could rapidly depart Marseilles.
Rachid Ghezzal (Lyon)
The Algerian winger played a big part in Lyon’s success in the second part of last season.
But he finds himself in the middle of a contract-extension conflict, and Premier League clubs such as West Ham and Everton are reportedly interested in the player.
Lyon’s chairman Jean-Michel Aulas said: “I know he doesn’t want to leave Lyon, so we have to come to an agreement so that we don’t stay in a situation that is no good for both parties.”
Fabinho (Monaco)
Indispensable element for Monaco, Fabinho is announced to leave for the Premier League since the start of the summer.
His destination? Manchester united could spend up to £25million to attract the 22-year-old Brazilian right-back international.
Monaco vice-chairman Vadim Vasilyev said: “We will do everything in our power to keep him, even though everything is possible in football.”
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