Free agent Djimi Traore has snubbed his former club Birmingham to join Monaco on a two-year deal.

The Mali international, who had been freed by Portsmouth, is now expected to return to Ligue 1 with Guy Lacombe’s side.

Traore joined Blues on loan towards the end of last season and made three appearances as the club were promoted to the Premier League.

Manager Alex McLeish offered a contract but it was heavily appearance-related, with the former Liverpool Champions League winner preferring a more secure deal at one of France’s biggest clubs.

The 29-year-old was also born in the country and started his career at hometown club Laval, before moving to England to sign for Liverpool in 1999. He has also had loan spells at Lens and Rennes.

In moving Traore will end a near-10 year stay in England, having also played for Charlton and Portsmouth.