Maxime Lopez confirms he will leave Sassuolo: “The time has come” | OneFootball

Sassuolo midfielder Maxime Lopez has confirmed that he is leaving the Neroverdi this summer, amidst interest from a host of clubs.

Lazio and Brighton have been linked with a move for the midfielder in recent months, with the Frenchman recently having spoken to Le Media Carre about his future. He confirmed that his adventure at the Mapei Stadium is now over.

He said (via TMW): “I played for three seasons in Sassuolo, which is a great club. I’ve already talked to them about my future, there I thanked them because in a certain sense they relaunched me and they also allowed me to show off, but I think the time has come to leave and aim higher.”

Napoli have also been interested in the player, with compatriot Rudi Garcia said to be keen.

Lopez said: “In Italy, I feel very good, I love this country, I speak Italian, and there are great clubs and if I can go to one of these clubs it would be the best. I also really like a southern club that reminds me a lot of Marseille.”

The midfielder worked with Roberto de Zerbi at Sassuolo and Brighton are playing in the Europa League next season. Lopez gave his views about a potential move to the Seagulls.

“Then there is the Premier League. De Zerbi? If you call me at Brighton we can have a serious discussion.”

The Frenchman also spoke about the possibility of a return to Marseille, saying: “Return to Marseille? I’ve thought about it several times, I’d like to come back but you don’t have to come back just to come back, I keep wondering if it’s a good choice or not.”

Lopez had joined Sassuolo from Marseille and his performances in midfield and his ability to dictate play from deep has been generally impressive.

Kaustubh Pandey | GIFN