FC Nantes sale advances with Paulo Tavares leading bid

The sale of FC Nantes is entering a decisive phase as Waldemar Kita seeks a buyer for the Ligue 2 club. A project led by Paulo Tavares through Phenix Sport Invest is currently considered the leading candidate. The proposal aims to revitalize the club's image by involving high-profile figures, including former Real Madrid defender Marcelo as a potential brand ambassador, former L'Equipe director Cyril Linette, and former basketball player Charles Kashema.

While Kita initially sought a valuation as high as 100 million euros, reports suggest negotiations may settle at a lower figure, potentially under 50 million euros. Fabrice Pancrate, a former player for both PSG and Nantes, has reportedly acted as an intermediary to help secure investors for the Tavares project.

Despite the momentum, some skepticism remains regarding the project's feasibility and the reliability of its leadership. The sale of Nantes is being compared to the recent 25 million euro sale of AS Saint-Étienne, highlighting the significant gap in valuation between the two clubs.