[Mighty T.A.L.]

Diawara nears Bordeaux move

Souleymane Diawara is hoping to complete a move to Bordeaux this weekend.

The French club confirmed earlier this week they had opened negotiations with the Charlton defender.

Diawara has now agreed a deal, believed to be for four years, and is looking to make his Bordeaux debut as soon as possible.

The Senegalese player has also revealed that he will not play in the African Cup of Nations early next year.

"I really hope it will be settled as soon as possible. I would like to sign on Friday or Saturday," Diawara told L'Equipe.

"I won't play the first Ligue 1 day, but I would like to play on the second weekend.

"I talked about Bordeaux's interest with my coach Alan Pardew. At first, he was not very keen to let me leave, but then, he understood my desire.

"I quickly found an agreement with Bordeaux.The project of coach Laurent Blanc and chairman Jean-Louis Triaud attracted me.

"I won't play ACN."

Charlton are expected to receive 5million euros (£3.4million) for Diawara.

Source: Skysports

Not a big loss for Charlton.