Giannelli Imbula in ‘advanced negotiations’ with new club, days after Stoke City termination

On February 21st, Lecce terminated the loan contract of Giannelli Imbula.

It came days after an Italian report described the midfielder as a tourist in the country, given that he wasn’t playing any actual football.

Sent back to Stoke City, it was reported in France that they too would be terminating the player’s contract, bringing to an end his disastrous stay, and confirming just what a financial loss the Championship club had made.

A day later, Stoke confirmed the termination, explaining it was mutual. They very briefly wished him well for the future, and probably kicked themselves once more for going through with the signing in the first place.

Now a free agent, Imbula can’t just join any club he likes, it has to be one where the window was still open before his contract was terminated. The obvious option has been Russia, and a week ago Foot Mercato reported he was in ‘advanced negotiations’ with Lokomotiv Moscow.

Imbula was said to be in Russia already, but it would appear he’s taken a massive detour.

Foot Mercato report the player is now in ‘advanced negotiations’ to sign for FC Sochi, the same club Adil Rami has just joined.