Nantes will sell Moses Simon for just £9 million after Brighton and Hove Albion entered talks with a player Premier League rivals Leeds United tried to sign in January, according to Own Goal Nigeria.
A couple of months ago, the one-time Liverpool target admitted that, when Leeds ‘came calling’ in the winter, the opportunity to cross the Channel and put pen to paper with the Yorkshire giants is one that held a lot of appeal.
“Yes, it is true. My agent told me about some offers. Leeds United came calling with strong offer and (it was my) intention of sealing the deal immediately,” Simon said.
“(But) my club want me to finish the season with FC Nantes.”
Securing a top-half finish in Ligue 1 – and their first piece of silverware in 20 years – Nantes can probably consider that decision justified. According to reports from the winger’s Nigeria homeland, however, the Canaries are unlikely to stand in his way this time around.
Brighton have reportedly entered talks. What’s more, Nantes are willing to accept bids in the region of £9 million with just two years left on the contract of a player who will turn 27 in a matter of weeks’.
Could Moses Simon replace Raphinha at Leeds United?
With the likely departure of Raphinha set to rob Jesse Marsch of his most influential creative outlet, now feels like the opportune moment for Leeds to, as Simon puts it, ‘come calling’ again. A tricky winger who can play on either flank, the former Gent ace produced six goals and eight assists in 2021/22 while shining at the African Cup of Nations.
“We didn’t handle the left-hand side of their attack,” bemoaned Mauricio Pochettino. “Simon had so much. We couldn’t handle (him) properly.”
Leeds have been tipped to replace the talismanic, twinkle-toed Raphinha with Wales international Rabbi Matondo. Simon, however, outperformed the Schalke misfit by a considerable margin in 2021/22 and looks a snip at £9 million.
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