Standard Liege reject initial offer from Lille for former Luton Town target | OneFootball

Sacha Tavolieri is reporting that Standard Liege have turned down an offer of around €5m for defender Nathan Ngoy. The Belgian youngster almost joined Luton Town last season but the transfer was cancelled after head coach Rob Edwards believed the side did not need another central defender. Luton had offered the same amount, which Standard had accepted. For Ngoy, missing out on the move to Luton and getting to join Lille instead would certainly be a blessing, given that Luton suffered back to back relegations last season.

In truth, the deal on the table is one that Standard would probably accept, but they do need to play hardball as much as possible this summer to ensure they bring in as much money as they can. The club are in a position where they have to sell in order to buy.

Ngoy came through the clubs youth system and has impressed when he has been fit enough to play. Last year he only managed 16 appearances for the side. Should Lille and Standard reach an agreement, it is unlikely that the deal will be much in excess of the €5m originally offered, as that is a fair fee for the 22-year-old who has a history of injuries. However, the potential of Ngoy means that Standard have to include some form of sell on fee percentage.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson