Thursday 31 August 2017 23:08, UK
Diafra Sakho will not be leaving West Ham despite spending two days trying to push through a move, say Sky sources.
The 27-year-old faced an anxious wait in the final stages of Deadline Day after telling West Ham officials why he wanted to end his Hammers career.
He passed a medical and agreed personal terms on Wednesday over a move to French side Rennes, despite no fee being agreed between the clubs.
Co-owner David Gold insisted their forward was not for sale and said he was integral to the club's plans this season.
However, Sakho flew back to England on Thursday afternoon and spoke to a Hammers representative on the phone to discuss his situation, before visiting Chelmsford racecourse as his advisers watched their horse Siege of Boston in action.
A meeting then took place on Thursday evening between Sakho, his advisers and West Ham at London Stadium.
The Premier League club representatives were told that Sakho wanted to leave because of "personal problems which have nothing to do with football".
By the time Deadline Day concluded, it was understood that all issues had been resolved and Sakho might now be offered a new deal.
Sakho has insisted he remains proud to play for West Ham, has total respect for the club and the fans.
He also wanted to make it clear that he targeted a move to Rennes because of a personal problem but now understands why he has to stay.
Earlier this week, Sakho told Sky Sports News: "I have had a frustrating time for the past couple of seasons. I want a fresh start and I want to get back to playing regular football.
"I have got no issues with West Ham or West Ham fans. This is purely a footballing decision. I want to go back to France."
Sakho, who joined West Ham from Metz in 2014, has less than 11 months remaining on his current contract.
The Senegal international scored 12 times in 26 matches during his first season in England.
But he has since endured an injury-hit period, with persistent back and hamstring injuries restricting to just 32 appearances in three seasons.
Despite this, he still attracted offers from Sunderland and West Brom in recent transfer windows.
