Taiwo eyes England move

By Oluwashina Okeleji
BBC Sport, Marseille

Taiwo has been the subject of transfer speculation

Nigerian defender Taye Taiwo is keen to play in the English Premier League.

The left back currently plays for Marseille in France.

Taiwo has emerged as one of the top performers in a resurgent side under the guidance of Eric Gerets.

After a brilliant performance at the last Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana, he has been the subject of transfer speculation in the French media.

Linked with a move to the Spanish, German and Italian leagues, he admits England has a special attraction.

"I think my style of play would fit the English league well," Taiwo told BBC Sport in France.

"I still have a contract here with Marseille which I want to respect because I love the fans and the club.

"But there is always contact and in football things happen so fast."

Having stuttered in the early part of the season despite a fine Uefa Champions League win at Liverpool FC, the 22-year-old and his club are on an upward trajectory in recent months and are fifth in Ligue 1.

Despite their recent exit from the Uefa Cup, Taiwo hopes his Nations Cup and Marseille exploits can secure him a move to the English Premiership.

I think my style of play would fit the English league well. Taye Taiwo, Nigeria and Marseille defender

"I hope I've made an impression. I want to be in England, it's a very nice place for football," he said.

"Football in France is equally good but every footballer dreams of taking his game to the next level.

"I think whenever I leave Marseille my ambition would be to play in England.

"Maybe with one of the big clubs, Manchester United, Chelsea or Arsenal. I really want to have a chance there."

"But realistically any club with ambition would be a nice place to take my game to in England," said the defender.