But instead the highly-rated midfielder completed a move from Le Havre to Lyon just before the transfer deadline.
“I was keen to leave Le Havre in my mind. They gave me until the end of August to sort out my future,” he told France Football.
“At first, actually I was due to leave for Manchester City. It was the club that showed the most interest in me just after the Under-20 World Cup.
“There were also Spanish, English and French sides, but Manchester City was in with the best chance.
“Even if they have a lot of midfielders, I was keen to go there.
“Then, early last week, Lyon came. In my position, they have only Kim Kallstrom and Maxime Gonalons.
“It changed everything. Considering the prospect of having first-team opportunities at the highest level, I didn’t hesitate.”
