FC Metz fans will be buying another round of drinks to celebrate the news that on-loan Mali international, Cheick Tidiane Diabate would like to sign for the Les Grenats on a permanent deal, according to the Equipe.fr

The striker was signed from Turkish side Osmanlispor on a season long loan deal by FC Metz boss Philippe Gaillot during in January and, despite his relatively unknown standing in world football,Diabate has managed to announce himself in France since his arrival with a host of quality performances.

The 29-year old has contributed to the French Ligue 1 giants’ positive start to the mid-season, having scored 8 goals in 14 appearances, contributing significantly to maintain the club in the league.

On the back of his impressive introduction to the Ligue 1, it was reported that Juventus were interested in signing the Malian on a permanent deal next season , with FC Metz left fearing that they could potentially miss out on acquiring the signature of one of their most influential players.

However, Metz can now breathe a sigh of relief after Diabate revealed to the France based wwbsite that he intends to stay put with the team beyond the end of the current campaign. Speaking to the Equipe,Diabate said :

“I am happy to be with such a united team that doesnt not have divisions,where everyone talks freely,which is rare in other clubs,”said Diabate.

When asked about if they could maintain him,Metz Manager Philippe Gaillot explained that there are looking for every possible way to keep the player .

“We are going to do everything to find the right formula to keep Cheick, because it has been a sporting and humanly decisive factor. We are ready to make an effort,” said Gaillot.