Mohamed Elyounoussi will not be joining Middlesbrough today. According to VG reporter Arilas Ould-Saada, the winger has rejected the chance to arrive at the Riverside Stadium on loan.
Twitter: Middlesbrough have made a loan offer for Southampton winger Mohamed Elyounoussi today. The player, however, is not… https://t.co/lhQdz57JYQ (@arilasos)
The Norway international appears to be surplus to Ralph Hasenhuttl’s demands ahead of the new Premier League season, but whether or not he will remain in England is unclear.
Elyounoussi is unlikely to get much game time at Southampton, it seems, but heading to the Championship with Boro isn’t an option.
Read Southampton’s verdict
It’s no real surprise to see Elyounoussi turn down this move. He’s had a torrid time in English football since joining for £16 million from FC Basel last summer, and a move abroad could suit him better.
Saints have plenty of really good wide options, and he simply hasn’t been up to the task when he has had the chance to shine.
Hasenhuttl’s attacking players are typically dynamic, aggressive and clinical on the break. Elyounoussi, simply put, has failed to show that he is capable of providing these traits in a Southampton shirt.
A move away from the club is necessary for him, but it is understandable that he is reluctant to try his luck in the Championship.
