Distin leaves Man City - World Soccer

The 29-year-old defender was offered a new contract at the City of Manchester Stadium but has opted to walk away.

“It has been an incredibly tough decision but I just feel I want a fresh challenge,” said the Frenchman, who is now expected to sign for Portsmouth.

“I had five very enjoyable years at City and I wish them all the best but I want to play somewhere different.”

Distin missed just one Premiership match last season and the offer he rejected was would have made him the highest-paid player in the club’s history.