Stoke, Fulham prepare Mahamadou Diarra bids

Stoke and Fulham are in the race to sign Mahamadou Diarra from Monaco.

The 30-year-old's contract ended last season as the club were relegated to Ligue 2 and now he is keen on a move to the top flight in England.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the former Real Madrid midfielder said: "Yes, the Premier League is somewhere I would love to play and I'm looking forward to that. I have other contacts, but a very good club in England would be my favourite option."

He added: "I am looking forward to next season. To be honest, if injuries do not come, I will have a great season."

A switch to the Britannia Stadium is thought to be Diarra's preferred option.