The Auvergne club wishes to permanently recruit a Nice player who was loaned to them last season.
Loaned to Clermont Foot 63 last January, Lucas Da Cunha had a successful second half of the season in Auvergne, even though he did not shine under the leadership of Galtier.
In 15 matches played, the 21-year-old scored 2 goals, provided 1 assist, and made a strong impression on his coach, the former Aiglon, Pascal Gastien. At the end of his loan, the attacking midfielder spoke about his future and aspirations:
“Pascal Gastien wants to keep me? Is that true? (smiles). Well… It’s cool to have a coach who relies on you, it’s definitely pleasing. However, at the moment, there hasn’t been any discussion. The talks, before I came here, were about five months, to finish the season. So obviously, this summer, initially, I’ll go back to Nice, and of course try to establish myself there…”
CF63 had informed Gym of their desire to retain the former Rennes player permanently; negotiations took place in June, but with the departure of Julien Fournier, they did not come to fruition.
Faced with strong competition that has recently increased with the arrival of Rares Ilie, Da Cunha might decide to leave OGC Nice, with whom he is under contract until 2024. According to L’Équipe, Clermont has renewed their interest in recent days, and an agreement for the permanent transfer of the attacking midfielder could be reached soon.
