Sadio Mane buys fourth-tier French club

Mane is the latest player to buy a football club

It was confirmed on Wednesday that the Senegal international had bought French fourth division side Bourges Foot 18.

Mane had been looking to purchase a club and his relationship with Bourges Foot's president, Cheikh Sylla, was a key factor in securing him a deal.

ESPN reported that the former Liverpool man had already contributed funds towards the club before making the purchase.

Following confirmation of his purchase, the Al Nassr star released a video message saying: "We’ve been working with the city for the past three years. We’re here to nurture and organise the club.

"The challenge is immense, but if the people of Bourges remain involved, I’m confident we can achieve our goals. I believe I’ll be visiting Bourges very soon."

Located 250 kilometres from Paris in central France, Bourges Foot have never played higher than the French second tier (when they were under the name Bourges 18) however they were only formed two years ago as a result of a merger of two clubs.

They currently sit second from bottom in Group B of the Championnat National but despite their struggles, Mane has plans to get them to Ligue 2 by 2030.

Back in June, N'Golo Kante bought RE Virton, who were relegated from the Belgian second tier at the end of last season.

Related links:

• N’Golo Kanté set to buy Belgian side
• David Beckham set to be offered Man United role if Qatari takeover is successful
• Everton face record-breaking points deduction over FFP rule breaches