‘High interest’ – Liverpool-linked Assan Ouedraogo’s father talks potential transfer

The father of German teenager Assan Ouedraogo says his son has yet to decide on his next steps amid transfer links with Liverpool and the Premier League.

In July, the midfielder became Schalke’s youngest ever debutant and goalscorer at 17 and has gone on to make 16 senior appearances this season, scoring three times and assisting a further two for the Bundesliga 2 side.

His appearance led to links with Anfield shortly after his discovery, although it was Bayern Munich who appeared to be leading the charge. Reports suggested the Bavarians had a deal in place for Ouedraogo whose release clause is said to be priced at £17m.

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However, the player’s father, former Burkina Faso international Alassane Ouedraogo, has now come forward to deny that any deal took place. He said his son was still exploring his options and was yet to decide his next move after receiving interest from the Premier League.

“Unfortunately, there are many false reports about Assan in circulation,” Alassane Ouedraogo told Sky Germany.

“The truth is that there was never a commitment from Assan and us to FC Bayern, even though we had a well-paid contract from FC Bayern ready to sign for months. The idea and perspective were more important to us than Bayern’s financial possibilities.

“I knew Bayern’s current situation and of course I followed it closely. Bayern have now informed us openly and honestly that they do not want to afford the transfer of Assan this summer for various reasons.”

He continued: “Assan recently turned 18. We are grateful and proud of the great interest in our boy. But we have a valid contract with Schalke 04 and we will not make any hasty decisions.

“The next step is incredibly important for his personal and footballing development. The financial aspect is not decisive, but primarily the idea and confidence of the future coach and those in charge.

“We will continue to work together with Schalke 04 to find an excellent solution for the club and for Assan. Assan has Schalke in his heart, I can assure you of that.

“We haven’t made a commitment to any club yet. Not just from Bayern. Many clubs, especially in the Premier League, were very interested in Assan.

“There are teams in England who would like to sign Assan directly for their professional team in the summer. We will make the right decision soon.”