Promising 20-year-old Nantes defender Nathan Zézé is reportedly nearing a transfer to Neom SC, a newly promoted Saudi Pro League team, as per L’Equipe. The French Under-21 international has given his consent to this move, opting to continue his career in Saudi Arabia. Neom SC appears to have outmaneuvered several European clubs in securing the signature of this highly-touted product of the Nantes Academy.
Spanish club Villarreal, famously known as the Submarino Amarillo, had reportedly been in advanced talks to sign Zézé. They were actively seeking a central defender due to Logan Costa’s significant injury. Reports indicate that Villarreal, set to compete in the Champions League next season, had offered €14 million, with an additional €4 million contingent on performance-based clauses.
However, Neom SC intervened with a substantial €20 million offer, which Nantes has now accepted. Foot Mercato further reports that Zézé is expected to command an exceptionally high salary, unprecedented for a player of his limited experience.
