Why should he have to hand in a transfer request and tarnish his great connection/reputation with the fans and club generally? Considering how good he has been for us, I think it's good enough for him just to let the club know behind closed doors he'd like the move rather than having to hand in an official transfer request. Which is most likely the amicable way he wants to go about doing it, keeping things private rather than going out on a sour note by saying he publically wants to leave to get this move forced through.
The club have already said they have no intention of selling unless he forces their hand.
Handing in a transfer request doesn't tarnish his reputation at all.
