Matuidi move to England edges nearer

The 22-year-old has made more than 50 appearances in all competitions for the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard outfit since arriving from Troyes in 2007, and earned caps at both French U19 and U21 level, making 19 outings for the latter.

However, the talented starlet is believed to be ready to walk away from the former French champions after they only narrowly avoided relegation this season, revealing he is keen to discuss his future with Les Verts.

“For the moment I am under contract with St Etienne,” he told Le Progres.

“I felt really good during my two years here, but a player always aims high.

“The directors agreed that we would evaluate the situation after two years. That is the moment. I have progressed, reached the next stage.”

Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Portsmouth are all thought to be keen on acquiring the Frenchman's services this summer.

The youngster had previously revealed his delight at reports linking him with a move to Arsene Wenger's outfit.

“I asked myself questions at the end of August after Arsenal showed their interest,” he said in The Sun.

“An opportunity to join them is not something ordinary. It gives you great self-esteem, it is Arsenal.

“At the end of the season we will have talks, anything is possible.”

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