The African legend Yaya Toure has turned down an offer from South America Club Botafogo and cited family reasons as a factor for not making the move.
Former Manchester City and Barcelona midfielder Yaya Toure has been linked with the Brazilian top-flight in the last few weeks after helping Qingdao Huanghai win the Chinese League One title in his debut campaign.
The 36-year-old was reportedly close to securing his first deal in South America but the club's vice-president, Ricardo Rotenberg has issued an update regarding the move.
“Yaya told us that he really wants to play in Botafogo but this is a very impactful decision for him and his family for an immediate decision. Moving to Brazil.
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“In conversation with the agent that for now we will end the negotiations but the doors are open in Botafogo. To be clear, Yaya did not accept - saying no.
"We’ve closed it but I still believe in Botafogo. Please, we will continue to send good messages to him and his wife."
Toure has had a nomadic career across Belgium, France, Greece, Spain, England and most recently China, winning several honors including one Champions League trophy, two La Liga titles and three Premier League titles among others.
Hello @YayaToure how are you?
— DeprêFogo (@DepreFogo) February 15, 2020
So, what do you think about play here in Botafogo the most tradicional club.
Here you can play with Honda, the best player from Japan history.
You need a club and we need you!
Please come to play in Botafogo!#YayaNoBotafogo pic.twitter.com/oE0UVcgvHY
Botafogo won't sign Yaya Touré after failing to reach an agreement with the player. (globoesporte)
— Futbol Agent (@Futbol_Agent_) March 3, 2020
Maybe he wasnt happy with the birthday cake the club were offering pic.twitter.com/lXDNmSOIkc