FC Nantes winger Moses Simon is on the verge of joining newly promoted Ligue 1 side Paris FC in a transfer expected to be sealed for less than €10 million, according to reports from But Football Club.
Despite initially rejecting a €5 million offer, Nantes have continued talks with Paris FC, and a final agreement is said to be imminent. The reports say that the deal could be finalised this week for a slightly higher fee, with both parties moving closer to a compromise.
Nantes Set to Cash In
Nantes president Waldemar Kita, known for his tough negotiating stance, had earlier refused to sell forward Matthis Abline to Marseille for anything under €40 million. Similarly, Kita dismissed Paris FC’s first bid for Simon, who has just one year left on his contract.
The 29-year-old Nigerian international is currently valued at €12 million by Transfermarkt, but given his age and contract situation, a fee between €5 million and €10 million is seen as reasonable. With Nantes looking to fund new signings this summer, offloading Simon could provide much-needed financial breathing room.
Simon Keen on Staying in France
Moses Simon is reportedly excited about the move and eager to stay in France, where he is pursuing dual citizenship. Paris FC, now backed by the Arnault family in partnership with Red Bull, are offering a more lucrative salary than the €120,000 gross monthly wages he currently earns in Nantes. The appeal of living in the capital, coupled with Paris FC’s ambitions, appears to have won Simon over.
Related article: Moses Simon and His Entrepreneurial Wife Ibukun: A Tale of Love, Football, and Family
A Sporting Loss, but Financial Gain for Nantes
Simon has been one of Nantes’ most consistent attacking players in recent seasons, and his departure would be a blow on the pitch. However, as noted, the transfer makes sense financially and could allow the club to accelerate its summer recruitment strategy.
Unless there’s a late twist, Simon’s move to Paris FC looks set to be one of the early talking points of the summer transfer window.
