Sunderland’s Wahbi Khazri could leave the club this summer.
Sunderland’s Wahbi Khazri in action with Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs and Alex Iwobi
Sunderland playmaker Wahbi Khazri has told L’Equipe that he doesn’t see himself staying at the club, and has hinted at being interested in a move to Marseille.
Khazri, 26, was a big signing for Sunderland in January 2016, with the Black Cats forking out around £9million (Sky Sports) to sign the Tunisian international under Sam Allardyce.
The attacking midfielder played a major role under Allardyce, helping Sunderland beat the odds and achieve Premier League survival with two goals and one assist 14 appearances, giving the club creativity and a spark going forward.
Sunderland’s Wahbi Khazri reacts
However, Allardyce left Sunderland last summer to take the England job, and his replacement David Moyes clearly didn’t rate Khazri, having started just seven Premier League games this season.
Despite Sunderland’s struggles, Khazri continued to be a bit-part figure under Moyes, and the club’s relegation means that Khazri could now pursue a summer departure.
Everton’s Phil Jagielka in action with Sunderland’s Wahbi Khazri
Khazri has spoken to L’Equipe about his future, stating that Moyes – who left Sunderland earlier this week – told him that he could leave this summer, and he doesn’t see himself staying despite Moyes’ exit.
Khazri admitted that he loves England, but won’t rule out a move back to France, and admitted that he would listen to a proposal from Marseille, calling them a great club as he seemingly angles for a move join Dimitri Payet.
Wahbi Khazri scores Sunderland
“After six very good first months, Sunderland changed coach and I have not played much. My head did not come back,” said Khazri. “Before leaving on Sunday, [Moyes] told me clearly that I could leave. It falls well: I do not see myself staying. I do not want to play in Championship. I have three years left, and my transfer would make everyone happy. Do they (Marseille) want me? I think I left a good image,” Khazri said. “But for now, I have no contacts from Ligue 1. I do not close any doors, but I love England, its atmosphere, its full stadiums, its beautiful lawns and its mentality, different from ours.”
“Even if you play to sustain and you suffer, you play to win and you have more spaces. I enjoyed it. It has nothing to do with France. Ah, if OM calls me? It’s a great club, with a great stadium and great supporters. I would have the right and duty to listen to the OM proposal, as I had done for Bordeaux. But it’s not in the pipes today. I have to be patient, but I’m hungry for football,” he added.
Would you like to see Khazri leave Sunderland?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
