Nantes briefly explored the possibility of bringing in Spartak Moscow centre-back Alexander Djiku during the last window, but the Ligue 1 side’s financial limitations meant the deal never got off the ground, Footy-Africa has exclusively confirmed the earlier reports from L’Equipe.
The Canaries, who also evaluated CJ Egan-Riley and Albian Hadjari as potential reinforcements, ultimately ran into a brick wall: their recruitment budget was reportedly nonexistent.
Spartak Moscow lands Alexander Djiku – €2.5m fee + wages – Transfer breakdown
A source close to Djiku’s entourage exclusively confirmed to Footy-Africa that Nantes’ interest was real but ultimately unsustainable.
“There was genuine contact from Nantes, no doubt about that,” the source said. “They liked Djiku’s profile, but the numbers just weren’t going to work. Spartak came in with a more convincing project and a better financial proposal, so the choice became clear. Alexander is happy where he is. He feels valued in Moscow, he’s settled, and he’s fully focused on helping the club push for trophies.”
Djiku, 31, only joined Spartak Moscow in September 2025 and is tied to the Russian giants until June 2027. Transfermarkt currently values the Ghana international at €5 million. He has already chalked up five league appearances this season for Spartak and remains a key figure for the Black Stars, with 36 caps and four goals to his name.
With the window behind them and Djiku committed to his Russian adventure, Nantes will have to look elsewhere for defensive solutions, while the Ghanaian defender continues to thrive in his new surroundings.
