Modeste’s blockbuster €35m move to China is off, says Koln

Bundesliga outfit Koln have announced they have ended discussions with Tianjin Quanjian about the sale of star striker Anthony Modeste after failing to agree a fee.

Modeste has been heavily linked with a move to China after enjoying a breathtaking campaign in the Bundesliga last season and a €35m (£31m) move to Quanjin appeared a formality.

However, Fabio Cannavaro’s side are now thought to be chasing the signature of Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in a deal that could be worth £70m, although it’s unclear whether this has played an part in a collapsed move for Modeste.

“FC forward Anthony Modeste will not transfer to Tianjin Quanjian after the parties involved were not able to reach an agreement,” a statement read on the club’s official website. “1.FC Koln reached a decision to terminate discussions on Wednesday. Anthony Modeste’s contract with FC runs until June 30, 2021.”

The Chinese Super League outfit failed in their attempts to sign Chelsea frontman Diego Costa at the start of 2017 and have now fallen short in their pursuit of another striker in Europe.

Only Aubameyang (31) and Robert Lewandowski (30) scored more goals in the Bundesliga last season than Modeste (25).

For more stats on Anthony Modeste, click here to visit his WhoScored player page