Nantes eye Kamaldeen Sulemana loan, Southampton hold out for permanent deal

Nantes have expressed interest in signing Kamaldeen Sulemana on loan from Southampton during the January transfer window, according to Sky Sports News.

The 22-year-old Ghanaian, who joined the Saints in January 2023, has attracted interest from multiple clubs, including Ajax and Genoa.

However, Southampton have made it clear they prefer a permanent transfer rather than a temporary move, as they aim to streamline their squad.

The Premier League club has set an asking price of €20m for Sulemana, a figure that was agreed upon with Benfica in the summer before negotiations collapsed.

While Nantes, alongside other suitors, see Sulemana as a valuable addition to their attack, Southampton are unwilling to sanction a loan deal, making a move to Les Canaris unlikely.

Sulemana, known for his pace and skill on the ball, has been a bright spark in a Southampton side, struggling in recent seasons.

His potential departure could bolster Nantes’ attacking options as they push for success in Ligue 1, but the financial demands of a permanent deal may deter them from pursuing the move further.

As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen whether a club will meet Southampton’s valuation or if the promising forward will stay at St. Mary’s for the remainder of the season.