The 35-year old looks like he’ll be returning to the Greek side where he began his career back in 2005. Toure had a successful spell with Olympiakos before moving to Monaco after the ’06 World Cup.
Reports are saying that Toure passed a physical in London on Tuesday night, making it a possibility that he could sign with another Premier League team. Despite having a keen interest in staying within England, no English club has shown serious interest in the former Man City midfielder.
Toure spent eight seasons with City after being released at the end of last season. He won three league titles with them and was an instrumental part of their midfield for many years. During his time at the Etihad, Toure made 315 appearances, scoring 79 times in that span. He also won three EFL Cups and an FA Cup with City.
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Toure spent just one year apiece with Olympiakos and Monaco to begin his career, eventually moving to Camp Nou and playing for Barcelona from 07-10′.
According to the Evening Standard, Toure had a conversation with West Ham boss Manuel Pelligrini about a possible move to the Hammers. The Ivory Coast international made 133 appearances under the Chilean manager during his tenure with Manchester City. But although Pelligrini believes Toure is a great player, he made it clear to him that he doesn’t fit into the plans that West Ham have for their squad.
"“In the moment that we were doing our squad list, that position was covered by other players. We need money to bring in other positions, so I explained to Yaya clearly why he cannot come here but I hope he will find a good and big club because he is a very good player.”-Manuel Pelligrini to the Evening Standard"
Beforehand, Toure’s agent said that the medical done in London wasn’t for West Ham because “Yaya is a champion, that’s the last place for him”.
Those comments triggered Pelligrini to reveal the truth about why Toure didn’t sign with West Ham.
Pelligrini also made it clear that Toure has said he wants to stay in England. But he is 35-years old now, and only has a couple years left at best in his career. The best move is to go to a club that really wants him, and that looks like it’s Olympiakos right now.
He is set to make 2 million euros after taxes with the Greek side. The transfer window in Greece ends on Friday, so the deal will have to be completed before then. Olympiakos takes on Burnley in Europa league play on Thursday, but even if the deal is done before then, Toure won’t be eligible to play.
Toure brings experience and a high football IQ to the Greek giants as they look to win the title this season.