OGC Nice have officially confirmed the signing of Salis Abdul Samed from RC Lens, according to the club’s media team statement.
Footy-Africa previously reported that the 25-year-old would sign a three-year deal worth €2.5 million plus a percentage of any future resale.
“We were looking for dynamism, impact and good energy in midfield. Salis is a balanced player, with a slightly more defensive profile than his direct competitors. He is fully committed on the pitch, has a real personality, and his knowledge of Ligue 1 and his personality will contribute positively to communication and the dynamic in the dressing room,” sporting director Florian Maurice explained.
Source: Abdul Samed joins Nice, turns down offers from Turkey and Russia
“He meets the coach’s expectations. Salis and Franck Haise know each other very well, which will make it easier for him to integrate, because each knows how the other works and what the other expects. He is an international (21 caps) who has also played in the Champions League. After a more difficult last season, we think he’ll be able to bounce back under Franck Haise,” president and CEO of the club Fabrice Bocquet.
Abdul Samed is coming off a season on loan at Sunderland, helping them secure promotion to the Premier League.
“I’m delighted to be joining an ambitious, European club. I’m also delighted to be back with the coach. I’m going to give my all to help the team and make the fans proud,” the player noted.
Salis endured a challenging 2024/25 season, including an unsuccessful loan spell in England with Sunderland. Upon returning to Lens for pre-season, the club made it clear he was not part of their plans, relegating him to train with the reserves.
