Like every week, we review the latest transfer news from OGC Nice. The last few days have been marked by a surprise contract extension on the Gym’s side. However, the Amir Richardson track is drifting away.
It’s an announcement that might have surprised many! This Wednesday, OGC Nice announced the contract extension of Jonathan Clauss. The Nice full-back is now tied until 2028 with the Eagles. The Frenchman had experienced a dip in form in mid-October and the after-effects of his failed move to Leverkusen last summer. Several rumors suggested that the player no longer wanted to play matches with Nice to avoid triggering his renewal clause and to leave as a free agent at the end of the season. This will ultimately not be the case, and Clauss is now committed to a long-term stay with the Gym. Present at a press conference this Friday, the full-back reflected on his challenging first half of the season.
On the arrivals side, the club is contemplating recruiting a new central defender. In this position, Claude Puel is often without Mohamed Abdelmonem, Youssouf Ndayishimiye, Dante, or Moïse Bombito due to injuries. Peprah Oppong and Juma Bah have been inconsistent in their performances. Antoine Mendy—who is participating in the CAN with Senegal—will remain unavailable for a few more weeks. Finally, the Gym was surprised by the return of Mattia Viti this week. Fiorentina ended the Italian defender’s loan. While a possible contract termination was suggested, this will ultimately not happen. The Italian central defender—who will not fit into Nice’s plans—should be loaned out again in this second half of the season.
End of the Richardson track, what solution for OGC Nice?
The story could have been beautiful, but it will ultimately not happen. According to L’Équipe, OGC Nice has ended the Amir Richardson case. The negotiations between Fiorentina and the Gym dragged on and did not reach the desired outcome. The player’s willingness to join Nice was not enough. To recap, Richardson had his youth training with the red and black club but never played a professional match. The Eagles, who still wish to strengthen their midfield, are now looking at other available options. There will need to be departures in this position before they can reinforce. Tom Louchet—who will not be retained—is the most serious candidate for a departure.
In the same area of play, Hicham Boudaoui is attracting interest. According to Foot Mercato, the midfielder is in the crosshairs of Brighton and Galatasaray. The Algerian’s excellent performances during this Africa Cup of Nations have not gone unnoticed in the transfer market. Several European clubs have been inquiring over the last few hours. For their part, OGC Nice is not currently looking to sell. However, if a satisfactory offer reaches the Nice management’s table during January, the outcome could be completely different. Stay tuned!
