Football Holden hopeful Robins can get new Famara deal ‘over the line’
BRISTOL City head coach Dean Holden has not given up on the Robins securing striker Famara Diedhiou to a new contract.
The 28-year-old scored his fourth goal of the season at the weekend and has interest from other Championship clubs, notably Middlesbrough, but the City boss has hinted that an end to the long-running saga could finally be in sight.
Speaking to BBC Radio Bristol after the 2-1 FA Cup third round victory over Portsmouth on Sunday, Holden was positive that something might finally be on the horizon.
If the Senegal international’s future can be wrapped up, it could be one of the most important signings for City in recent years given that the powerhouse forward is coming into his prime and has been the club’s top scorer for two seasons running.
“As I say, Mark (Ashton) is in discussions. I’m hoping soon we can get something sorted because you never quite know, you’re never sure until you get it over the line, so fingers crossed,” said the head coach.
Asked if there’s interest from elsewhere, Holden replied: “Yeah, of course there is, he’s a good player.
“We haven’t had any bids from clubs but as I said last week we’ve had tentative enquiries. It’s important for us to get that one over the line.”
It appears to be a case of watch this space for Bristol City supporters - as they eagerly await news on the future of a key player.
Meanwhile, Holden has also praised the impact that Hakeeb Adelakun had at the weekend, after the winger returned from playing with Hull City to feature in the win against Pompey.
“They’ve had to change the rules with that (loans) and this year you can play for a third club,” he said. “But in Haks’ case, he’s not played for the club for a long time and he comes back to the club with some confidence. He’s had a good spell at Hull, a different experience at a different part of the country.
“He can be pleased with his 65 (minutes played against Portsmouth). I’m pleased with him.”