Lyon blame Gomis for Martial sale

Lyon have claimed Bafetimbi Gomis’ inability to negotiate a move away has forced them to sell promising forward Anthony Martial to Monaco.

Gomis is considered surplus to requirements at the Stade de Gerland but rejected moves to both Swansea and Cardiff after fees had been agreed with Lyon.

And the Ligue 1 club have now accused the 27-year-old of creating a situation whereby the sale of the highly rated Martial became a necessity.

“Having not been able to complete the move of any player approached for a transfer by June 30, notably Bafetimbi Gomis, the club considered Monaco’s offer for Anthony Martial,” a statement read.

“The club completed Anthony Martial’s move for five million euros plus an important share on a future transfer.”

Gomis joined Lyon from Troyes in 2009 and has scored 74 goals in 189 appearances for the French club.

Martial, meanwhile, made his first-team debut in the UEFA Europa League in December 2012, one day after his 17th birthday.