Diarra says au revoir to Lyon

Mali international Mahamadou Diarra has said goodbye to his Lyon teammates, embarking on a new chapter in his career with Real Madrid.

The highly-regarded midfielder has an appointment at the Bernabeu stadium later Tuesday for a medical before putting pen to paper on a five year contract with the nine-time European champions.

A private jet was standing by to fly him and his agent to the Spanish capital.

But he made time before leaving France to visit the Stade Gerland where his soon to be former colleagues were assembling for the official team photo.

"I went to say goodbye to my teammates and wish them good luck," said Diarra, who is joining Real on a reported 26 million euro transfer.

"There was a super atmosphere in the team."

"I'd like to thank all the fans at the Stade Gerland who supported me throughout my four years here."

He added: "It's hard to say goodbye, but fate has chosen this route. That's it, ciao."

Lyon may soon have another Diarra in their midst as the departing midfielder's namesake Alou is lined up to sign from Lens.

The France international midfielder is set to join Gerard Houllier's five time champions on a four year deal worth seven million euros.