Nantes enter race to sign Southampton centre-back Armel Bella-Kotchap | OneFootball

Nantes have entered the race to sign Germany international centre-back Armel Bella-Kotchap (23) from EFL Championship side Southampton, according to a report from L’Equipe. Les Canaris are looking to revamp Luis Castro’s defensive options after a mass exodus at the back this summer. Jean-Charles Castelletto, Nicolas Pallois and Nathan Zézé all left La Maison Jaune.

Nantes signed Chidozie Awaziem from Colorado Rapids, as well as Uros Radakovic. But the Serbian free agent is reportedly already on his way out after failing to convince Castro after only one month in Nantes. The outlet adds that Nantes have joined the race to sign Bella-Kotchap, who joined Southampton from Bochum three years ago. Nantes are reportedly willing to sign the Germany international on loan with an option to buy.

Ouest-France adds that the competition to sign Bella-Kotchap will be tense and that Nantes are reportedly pessimistic over their chances to succeed in the race to sign the Southampton centre-back.

GFFN | Bastien Cheval