Sacked Yaya Toure returns to London in search of new club

• Turns down MLS, China

Yaya Toure is on his way to London in search of a new club after having his contract at Olympiacos terminated after just three months.The Ivorian midfielder enjoyed a successful eight years at Manchester City, and is now heading back to the UK to find a temporary club to train with.

Toure has played just four times this season – none of which a full 90 minutes – and he is keen to improve his fitness before signing a short-term deal this season.

Sportsmail understands Toure’s agent will approach a number of top-flight clubs, including the likes of West Ham and Crystal Palace, but any deal may be pricey for the clubs involved.

The 35-year-old has already turned down offers from China and MLS, with his heart set on a move back to the Premier League. Toure was granted British citizenship this year and has a family home in London, meaning his preferred move would be in or around the capital. 

He signed for former club Olympiacos in September, having left Manchester City on a free transfer after eight years at the Etihad Stadium. However, he has played just five times, and parted ways with the club on Tuesday after attending training to say goodbye to his team-mates. 

In a statement, the Greek club wrote: ‘Olympiacos FC and Yaya Toure would like to announce to the fans that they have mutually agreed to end their cooperation.‘Yaya is and remains an important member of the Olympiacos family, who has marked a central part of the history of the club. Olympiacos would like to thank him for everything he has offered to the club.

‘Yaya will remain deeply devoted to the club and wishes to Olympiacos lots of success.‘Yaya is leaving as a friend and the doors at Olympiacos will always be open for him. Our paths will surely cross again.’ According to Greek radio station Sport24, Toure leaves after reportedly falling short of the expectations of manager Pedro Martins.