Former alleged Cardiff City target Younousse Sankhare is reportedly on the verge of being fired by current club Bordeaux.
The midfielder was one of several names believed to be of interest to the Bluebirds in the summer window, although sources inside the club had always played down the level of any potential interest.
However, sources in France have always been adamant that Cardiff's interest was real.
Sankhare is not in boss Paulo Sousa's plans for the new season, with reports in France suggesting that the player has been suspended, the reasons for which are not yet clear.
Spanish side Leganes were reportedly close to a move, although reports on the continent suggest the transfer fell through due to financial problems.
French outlet 20 Minutes claims Sankhare has been suspended by the club "as a precaution", adding that the player was not able to access the club's training ground, car park or dressing room.
Sankhare was then called to the club offices, where he reportedly met with deputy chairman Frédéric Longuépée, a bailiff and a member of Human Resources, before being told that he was being suspended for a week.
The same outlet has also claimed that the situation is likely to culminate in Sankhare being sacked by the club, meaning he would be available immediately without a transfer fee.
Neil Warnock is understood to be keen on exploring the free agent market in light of the recent injury to midfielder Marlon Pack, but it remains to be seen whether he would be tempted to make a move for the 29-year-old.
