Lyon confirms Tolisso will remain at club despite €37.5M bid from Napoli
Lyon announced Wednesday it rejected Napoli's €37.5-million bid plus bonuses for midfielder Corentin Tolisso, with the player ultimately making the decision to remain in France.
The news comes just a day after Les Gones denied a deal was in place to send Tolisso to southern Italy.
The 21-year-old has emerged as one of Lyon's finest graduates, working through the youth system to secure a regular starting role over the past two seasons.
Growing a reputation as a versatile midfielder, he played in both defensive and central positions - even masquerading as a right-back out of necessity.
Napoli pushed hard to capture Tolisso, especially once Gonzalo Higuain's €90-million move to Juventus became reality.
Armed with fresh funds, the Partenopei tested Lyon and Tolisso's resolve, but the player reiterated his commitment to the Ligue 1 side, which finished second to Paris Saint-Germain last season.
"I'm very attached to the club and I don't feel like leaving at the moment," he said. "I still have big things to accomplish with OL with a great season ahead, and don't feel like leaving now."
He informed president Jean-Michel Aulas of his decision after a long but positive meeting, according to the club's statement.
HEADLINES
- Deadline Day Live! Breaking down all the major transfers and rumors
- Roma's stoppage-time equalizer halts Napoli's winning streak
- De Vrij snatches last-gasp draw for Inter in another dramatic Milan derby
- 20 players who could move on transfer deadline day
- Latest news and rumors from the January transfer window