Lyon midfielder Michael Essien looks set to stay in France, his agent has confirmed.
Essien, 22, has been the subject of a reported £26m bid from Chelsea, while Manchester United have also shown interest in the Ghana international.
But agent Fabien Piveteau told BBC Sport: “The chairman of Lyon wants to keep the player for one more year.
“It’s not a problem because he’s a young player and Lyon is a good club.”
He added: “If it is possible to leave for a big club in England then that is better, but the problem is it is not Michael deciding and it is not me.”
However, with Chelsea now seemingly turning their attentions to Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard, it appears Essien could be set to stay with the French champions.
Piveteau added: “For now there is no news. We have not heard anything from Chelsea.
“There were reports in England that Manchester United had renewed their interest. I don’t know if it’s true or not.”
