Alexander Djiku was close to Nantes, but! | OneFootball

The Ghanaian international was close to joining the French league, but some financial obstacles halted the deal.

Alexander Djiku - getty images

Financial realities have once again clipped the ambitions of FC Nantes, forcing them to abandon a sentimental plan to bring a familiar face back to Ligue 1. According to reports from L’Équipe, the club had set its sights on Ghanaian international defender Alexander Djiku, currently with Spartak Moscow.

The 31-year-old centre-back, known for his solid and experienced presence, emerged as a key target for the Nantes board, who dreamed of reinforcing their defence with a player of his calibre. However, this ambitious project proved to be a fleeting thought rather than a tangible operation. The heart was willing, but the wallet was weak. The Canaries were ultimately forced to let the idea fade away, unable to muster the financial resources required for such a move.

The primary obstacle was Nantes's stark financial constraints. Operating with a minimal recruitment budget, the club found it impossible to meet Djiku's market valuation, which stands at approximately €5 million. This figure was simply a mountain too high for a club still grappling to regain its economic footing, despite having secured its place in France's top flight.

Djiku, who only joined the Russian outfit in September 2025 on a contract running until 2027, has already featured in five league matches this season, cementing his status as a reliable stalwart. For Nantes, this aborted pursuit is more than just a missed signing; it's a stark illustration of the tight financial limits they must navigate as they work to rebuild a stable future.