Bella-Kotchap in talks over Saints exit after Hoffenheim deal collapse

MANAGER Russell Martin revealed Armel Bella-Kotchap remains in talks over an exit from Saints following the collapse of his permanent move to Hoffenheim.

Bella-Kotchap, 22, travelled to Germany last week in order to complete a proposed £13million return to the Bundesliga.

Reports in Germany suggested a deal was on the verge of falling through after a “heart problem” was discovered during the defender’s medical.

He remained in his home country as Hoffenheim opted for more tests before deciding to walk away from the deal.

Martin reiterated that Bella-Kotchap’s health is “fine” – having previously had standard heart surgery – and insisted the proposed transfer did not collapse due to medical reasons.

Martin told the Daily Echo: ” Armel’s move to Hoffenheim is off at the moment, not because of his medical reasons, because he’s fine.

“If he comes back here, he’ll be training straight away and he might be in the squad for Wednesday (against Cardiff City).

“There are talks ongoing with other clubs right now. Armel is a well-liked player across Europe because of what he brings, especially his physical power.

“He’s been in the Germany squad at a very young age. For the right team and the right style, he’ll be a brilliant addition.

“So maybe he leaves, maybe he stays. Talks are ongoing with other clubs and we will see where that gets to over the weekend.

“If it’s not resolved by the weekend then he’ll be back here on Monday and training because he is fine.

“And that’s why I think, especially with the deal now falling through, that the reports last week were irresponsible. I’m still not very happy about it.

“Because if we hadn’t had that conversation about Armel last week and it comes out that he’s not going to Hoffenheim, it looks like it would be because of that reason.

“It could derail a young man’s career in a big way. Armel is fine, he’s good, he’s working, he’s just waiting to see where his future is going to lie. We will know a bit more over the weekend.”