Ivorian starlet Stephane Diarra addresses Newcastle and Celtic speculation

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Young Ivorian midfielder Stephane Diarra has broken his silence following recent speculation linking him with a move to Newcastle United and Celtic.

L’Equipe reported last month that the Le Mans starlet had emerged as a potential transfer target for the Premier League and Scottish Premiership clubs.

Diarra has been making waves over in France, and is viewed by many as one of the most exciting prospects outside of the top division.

The 21-year-old was loaned to Le Mans last season by Rennes after failing to settle there, and this summer he made his move permanent.

Apparently Celtic watched him on a number of occasions last term, and Leicester City are also keen.

But it would appear an exit next month is unlikely judging by the player’s take on the speculation.

Diarra told Goal: “My goal is to play as many games as possible. It’s good to know that several clubs follow you, but leaving Le Mans this winter? I don’t know. I need to stay focused on my season. I’ll watch what is going on and we will see.”

TBR’s view – Diarra would be a gamble

Newcastle and Celtic are said to be interested in Diarra, but perhaps the youngster needs more time to develop before either consider making a move.

He’s only just joined the club on a permanent basis, and he is only playing in Ligue 2 at the moment, and so stepping up to the Premier League or the Scottish Premiership would be a big deal.

Perhaps he is a player to keep an eye on in the future – if Le Mans can get promotion to Ligue 1 and Diarra can show his ability in the French top-flight, then maybe he should be revisited.