Ertuğrul Sağlam confirms talks between Man City & Bursaspor over Kolo Toure

2012-07-12 02:42:00

Bursaspor manager, Ertuğrul Sağlam confirmed that negotiations with Manchester City defender are ongoing to reporters present at the clubs Austria summer training camp yesterday.

Sağlam said, "We have been in talks with Kolo Toure over the past two days, it's would be one of the most important transfers to be completed by an Anatolian side.

"Obviously nothing is certain until he signs pen to paper however, we are working hard to try finalize a deal."

Manchester City are in the process of reducing to their wage bill and are uncomfortable paying Toure, £90,000 per-week.

The 31-year-old experienced defender has a year left on his contract, City are unlikely to renew terms unless he accepts a wage cut and a reduced role in the team.

Toure has struggled for first-team opportunities this season, only getting eight Premiership starts and featuring in 22 matches in all competitions.

Bursaspor club are unlikely to be able to match his current wages however, the difference in the tax rates would reduce the difference.

According to sports economist, Tuğrul Akşar "Turkish clubs are attractive as they give more money to the football players and the tax rate of 15 percent is lower than in Europe."