Despite widespread anticipation of a transfer, Ivory Coast international Evann Guessand, 24, remains with OGC Nice as the new season rapidly approaches. He was expected to leave before Nice`s first match, yet with less than a week remaining until their opener, he is still at his formative club.
However, his continued presence at the club is not expected to last. Nice manager Franck Haise stated in late July that there was a “90% certainty” Guessand would depart before the transfer window closes. While Saudi Arabian club Neom SC has shown strong interest in the striker, Guessand is reportedly not keen on a move to the Middle East.
Guessand is a target for numerous clubs, including Crystal Palace, who have already initiated discussions with Nice. His preference lies with a transfer to either the Premier League or the Bundesliga. Despite this, Neom`s financial offer remains unmatched, a situation that is increasingly frustrating the Nice management. They are eager to secure a sale to fund team rebuilding efforts but are wary of having to do so in the final days of the transfer window.