Anelka too pricey for Lyon

Manchester City striker Nicolas Anelka is too expensive for Lyon according to the French club’s president Jean-Michel Aulas.

Instead, Lyon look set to turn their attention to Javier Saviola of Barcelona.

Aulas said: “They (Manchester City) want €15m but this is a little bit too expensive compared to the market.”

Earlier this week Aulas had revealed both strikers were being trailed by Lyon, champions of France for the last three seasons, as they seek cover for Brazilian Giovane Elber who is sidelined for at least three months with injury.

Saviola has already been hunted by Monaco but Barca’s refusal to pay his wages when the player was out on loan has all but scuppered the deal for the cash-strapped Principality club, who also lost interest in a deal for Anelka because of City’s demands.

Meanwhile Paulo Wanchope is determined to help Malaga become a force in Europe after joining the Spanish club from City.

The 28-year-old Costa Rican could go straight into the side that kicks off the new Primera Liga season away to Atletico Madrid tomorrow.

“It is an honour to come here thanks to the interest the club showed in me,” said Wanchope, who will replace last season’s top scorer Salva Ballesta.

Ballesta scored 19 goals to help Malaga finish last season in a creditable mid-table position, but he has now joined Atletico, leaving Wanchope with quite a task to emulate.

“I have come here filled with optimism to a club that is making progress,” said the former Derby County player.

“I know they are not one of the biggest sides in Europe, but I have come here to try and make that happen,” said Wanchope.