Whilst Pavel Šulc (25) has recently embarked on his second season as a player for Olympique Lyonnais, it was far from France that the Czech international could have written a new chapter in his career this season.

Plagued by significant financial problems and in search of funds to stay afloat, the Lyon management had therefore braced themselves for the possibility of their versatile Czech midfielder leaving the Rhône region during the summer transfer window.

“My departure was entirely expected. But I asked the directors and the club to give me specific details. I didn’t want to know if any clubs were interested,” Šulc explained in an interview with ČT Sport.

Reportedly linked with Leeds United and Juventus, Lyon’s number 10 explained that he had been contacted, but that “the financial aspect wasn’t discussed. They told me they didn’t want to pay that much.”

“I’m not exactly a rising star at twenty, but perhaps if I had a Portuguese passport, I’d be more marketable – though I don’t want that to sound bad.”

Having ultimately stayed at Lyon, Šulc has returned to action after being hampered by a few minor fitness issues. Having made seven appearances for Les Rouge et Bleu since the start of the season, the Czech player has provided three assists.