Malbranque on the market

Jeroen

13 mei 2006, 12:18

Fulham will "listen to offers" for star midfielder Steed Malbranque after the Frenchman rejected new terms with the west London club.

The 26-year-old would have been out of contract in summer 2007 and the Cottagers claim Malbranque wanted to play out next season before moving on a lucrative Bosman free transfer. A club statement posted on the official website read: "Fulham Football Club began its negotiations to renew the contract of Steed Malbranque in the summer of 2005.

"After protracted discussions an offer was made to the player and his agents at the beginning of May which amounted to the most significant financial package in the club's history. Unfortunately Steed Malbranque has not accepted this offer and has in fact indicated that no offer would be acceptable at this stage as he would like to leave Fulham next summer on a free transfer."