In an exclusive interview with the Halesowen News, fans favourite Eldon Maquemba (pictured) distanced himself from reports he had signed for Cypriot outfit Olympiacos Nicosia and instead stated he was hopeful a deal could be struck to keep him at the Grove for next season.

The 23-year-old Angolan has scored 12 goals since arriving last October, including an amazing match-winning 25-yard effort at home to Chippenham last week.

The striker said: "I want to stay at Halesowen and be part of the success.

"I've really enjoyed my time here in England and I don't want to leave Halesowen without a trophy.

"Hopefully we will be able to come to some sort of agreement."

The claim on a Cypriot football website that Maquemba had supposedly agreed to join Olympiacos Nicosia on April 24 came as a shock to manager Morrell Maison.

He added: "I was told about this on Tuesday morning because I don't go on the web so it was news to me.

"At times I just don't know where these people get their information from.

"Eldon and I are currently on the way to the Grove to try and come to some sort of agreement because he's someone we want to keep here.

"All things being good a deal could be signed by the end of today (Wednesday)."

His signature would be a major boost for the Yeltz with top goalscorer Dean Brennan already signed up for next year.