Brahimi Unfazed by PSG Interest, Focused on Porto and Country
Algerian international Yacine Brahimi has emerged as one of Africa’s standout performers in the opening round of the UEFA Champions League, reinforcing FC Porto’s faith in their €6.5 million summer signing.
Brahimi’s eye-catching displays have not gone unnoticed. French giants Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly monitoring the 24-year-old with a view to making a formal approach during the January transfer window, according to Portuguese newspaper A Bola. Yet, despite the mounting speculation, the Porto midfielder remains fully focused on his current club.
“A potential offer from PSG in January? I can’t talk about that—you should ask my agent,” Brahimi said, speaking to Algerian media this week. “My priority is to score as many goals as possible for my team. I’m focused on my performances with Porto.”
Brahimi, who joined the Portuguese club from Granada earlier this year, has already made a strong impact. His performance in the Champions League opener has drawn praise from pundits and fans alike, adding fuel to transfer rumours linking him with Europe’s top clubs.
The midfielder’s composed response to transfer interest reflects a growing maturity, especially as he balances club success with international duties. Christian Gourcuff, manager of the Algerian national team, has called up Brahimi for the crucial AFCON 2015 qualifying double-header against Malawi, scheduled for October 11 and 15.
The two-legged tie could be pivotal in securing Algeria’s place at the continental finals in Morocco next January. Gourcuff has already signalled his intent to build around a core of dynamic, attacking players—among them Brahimi—who are capable of carrying the team deep into the tournament.
With competition intensifying both at the club and international level, Brahimi remains focused on the task at hand rather than the glamour of a potential move.
“Of course it’s flattering,” said a source close to the player, “but Yacine knows what’s at stake this season. He wants to prove himself in the Champions League and help Algeria qualify.”
Porto will be keen to keep hold of their rising star, especially if his performances continue to attract attention from Europe’s elite. For now, though, Yacine Brahimi’s sights are firmly set on Malawi and Morocco, not Paris.
