Former Premier League star ‘set to be forced to retire’ at 28 as £4million transfer scuppered

FORMER Tottenham star Nabil Bentaleb could be forced to end his career at 28, according to reports

The Algeria midfielder, who spent five seasons in North London, also had a loan spell with Newcastle in 2020.

Nabil Bentaleb played for Angers last season in FranceRex

Bentaleb played for Angers last season but failed to prevent the French side’s relegation from Ligue 1.

He had been due to join hometown club Lille in a £4million deal, with the northern outfit previewing his imminent arrival two weeks ago.

However Bentaleb has yet to sign a contract while two more recent transfer targets have already put pen to paper on deals.

Multiple reports in France and Algeria now claim the 43-cap international failed his medical.

Lille president Olivier Letang said: “At the moment there are things I cannot say about Nabil Bentaleb due to medical confidentiality.

“But there are concerns that have not been eased. We are waiting for the results of additional examinations.

“There is a process that is compulsory in France. Our medical staff have sent the various elements to the league’s commission that decides on the matter.

“We are waiting for their reply. They could make additional requests.

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“This could be temporary. I can’t say anything about a Plan B until we get the definite results.”

The commission is expected to deliver its potentially career-ending verdict on Bentaleb in mid-August.

Bentaleb spent five years in Lille’s academy aged from nine to 14.  He joined Spurs in 2012, and made 66 senior appearances – scoring once.

The midfielder moved on to Germans Schalke, and had a goalless 15-game loan stint at St James’ Park three years ago.

PABentaleb, 28, made 66 appearances for Tottenham[/caption]  Read More 

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