By David Gold
August 25 – French club Sochaux have reported Newcastle United to FIFA for allegedly making an illegal approach to their forward Modibo Maïga (pictured).
Newcastle have been tracking Ligue 1 all summer for reinforcements and are keen to sign a striker after missing out on Kevin Gameiro to Paris Saint-Germain.
Maïga was quoted in French sports daily L’Equipe saying: “I want it to be done with Newcastle, I want to leave, it is necessary that the president agrees to negotiate.
“I met everybody, they want me and it is not any club, England is a dream.
“I want to leave, it is necessary that the president agrees to negotiate.”
The 23-year-old has refused to play for Les Lionceaux in their last three games, including the Europa League qualifier with Metalist Kharkiv last week, as well as refusing to train.
Midfielder Kevin Anin, who has the same agent as Maïga, also boycotted the club’s 2-1 win at Nancy last weekend.
Sochaux believe Newcastle contacted Maïga illegally and put a statement on their website confirming their referral of the issue to FIFA.
“On Monday August 22 Sochaux sent a referral to FIFA with the aim of obtaining assurances on the part of Newcastle United that they will stop their contacts with Modibo Maïga, who is under contract until 2014,” the statement read.
“This is in violation of Article 18 of the current international regulations.
“This measure comes after Sochaux demanded without success, in an official manner and on two occasions, that the English club put a stop to their actions.”
No spokesperson for Newcastle United was available for comment.
Maïga scored 15 goals in Ligue 1 last season, and Sochaux are keen to retain the player, particularly with Arsenal linked with their star playmaker Marvin Martin.
Contact the writer of this story at zib.l1734884767labto1734884767ofdlr1734884767owedi1734884767sni@d1734884767log.d1734884767ivad1734884767