Lugano touts PSG departure

Diego Lugano has fuelled speculation of an exit from Paris Saint-Germain after being overlooked for their Champions League squad.

As well as his exclusion from European commitments by manager Carlo Ancelotti, a lack of playing time has also affected Lugano’s chances of joining up with his Uruguay colleagues during the nation’s World Cup qualifying campaign.

“It is a challenge that I initiated myself, and then again, my contract was also very lucrative,” the former Fenerbahce defender told Ovacion.

“My salary is high, I live in France, and play for a great team, so that was enough not to prompt me to leave during the summer.

“However, if the situation at PSG has a negative effect on myself being called up for national duty, I will consider my options. Uruguay are too important for me to neglect them.”

The centre-back moved to Parc des Princes last term for a fee of three million euros (2.4m pounds), but only managed 12 appearances last season, partly due to injury.

Thiago Silva’s arrival from AC Milan is expected to see Lugano’s chances of action dwindle further.