Sunderland AFC defender Lamine Kone, has shocked many Black Cats fans, by asking to leave the Stadium of Light.
Interest from elsewhere
Kone proved to be an inspired buy from former manager Sam Allardyce, and proved to be one of key men in the club's eventual top-flight survival.
However with Allardyce gone, and David Moyes been brought in, the future of Ivorian has been brought into question.
Kone has been subject to a reported £18m bid from Everton, who have already secured the services of Swansea's Ashley Williams, after John Stones' departure.
Time for me to go
It did seem that Kone might be staying on Wearside, with the defender reportedly been offered a new contract, but Kone has confirmed that he has asked to leave Sunderland.
He told Sky Sports News HQ: "After a week in which there has been a vast amount of speculation with regard to my future at Sunderland Football Club, I think that it is only fair to the fans of the club to clarify the situation."
"At the end of last season I was told by the club that I would be offered a new contract," and "Following numerous phone conversation and face-to-face meetings, the latest of which took place today with David Moyes and Martin Bain, no contract has been forthcoming."
Kone concluded: "It is therefore with much regret that I can only assume that I do not figure in David Moyes' future plans," and believes "With that being the case it is with much sadness that I have asked the manager and the chief executive to be allowed to leave Sunderland Football Club."
Sunderland AFC will take on Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, August 13 with kick-off at 5pm BST.