Mali forward Lassine Sinayoko at centre of Auxerre transfer dispute

Mali international Lassine Sinayoko has become embroiled in a dispute with AJ Auxerre after reportedly refusing to return to training, with the striker claiming the Ligue 1 club has gone back on a written commitment allowing him to leave during the summer transfer window.

The 26-year-old forward, who played a key role in Auxerre’s successful battle to retain their Ligue 1 status last season, is now at the centre of growing uncertainty over his future.

According to Foot Mercato, Sinayoko has decided not to resume training after the club allegedly failed to honour an agreement that would have allowed him to leave if a suitable transfer offer was received.

The disagreement stems from negotiations that took place last summer when Auxerre were keen to avoid losing the player as a free agent at the end of his previous contract.

To secure his future, the club convinced Sinayoko to extend his deal until 2027. In return, the striker reportedly received a signed document from the club’s president stating that he would be permitted to leave during this transfer window should an acceptable offer arrive.

Reports claim that such an offer was eventually submitted, meeting the conditions outlined in the agreement.

However, Auxerre are said to have refused the proposal, arguing that the signed document carried no legal value. That decision has reportedly left the Mali international frustrated and triggered the current stand-off between player and club.

As the dispute continues, interest in Sinayoko remains strong.

According to Onze Mondial, newly promoted Ligue 1 side Paris FC have made an offer worth €7 million for the striker.

Auxerre, however, are understood to have rejected the bid, with the club reportedly valuing the player at €12 million.

The reports also suggest that Sinayoko is interested in joining the Paris club and has asked Auxerre to facilitate his departure before the close of the transfer window.

His desire to move follows what was widely regarded as the most productive campaign of his career.

The striker scored 12 goals and provided four assists in 32 Ligue 1 appearances last season, establishing himself as one of Auxerre’s most influential players.

Beyond his attacking contributions, Sinayoko earned recognition for his work rate and commitment across the pitch, qualities that made him an important figure in the team’s fight to preserve its top-flight status.

Since joining Auxerre in 2017, the Malian international has made 175 appearances for the club, becoming one of the longest-serving members of the squad.

According to Transfermarkt, Sinayoko is currently valued at €10 million.

With Paris FC’s interest confirmed in reports and tensions remaining unresolved, attention will now turn to whether Auxerre and the player can reach a solution before the transfer window closes.