French Ligue 1 side FC Metz have decided to retain on-loan Mali international, Cheick Tidiane Diabate, on a permanent basis after impressing at the club last season.
The attacker was on loan to Les Grenats from Turkish side Osmanlispor and managed to make an impression on Metz boss Philippe Gaillot
The 29-year old contributed significantly in maintaining the club’s status in the league with his eight goals in 14 appearances, despite only arriving in the January transfer window.
His impressive displays didn’t go unnoticed, and he was soon reported to be a target of Juventus.
But Metz have since moved swiftly and ensured the Bamako-born attacker remains at Stade Saint-Symphorien beyond his current deal, according to L’Equipe.
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“I am happy to be with such a united team that doesn’t have divisions, where everyone talks freely, which is rare in other clubs,” Diabate was quoted by the French publication.
Gaillot also reiterated that the Lorraine-based side will do all they can to retain the former Bordeaux forward.
“We are going to do everything to find the right formula to keep Cheick because it has been a sporting and humanly decisive factor,” Gaillot said.
“We are ready to make an effort.”
