Ghana international Alidu Seidu has joined OGC Nice on loan from Stade Rennais in a late move made possible by France’s ‘joker’ transfer rule.
The 26-year-old defender has completed a straight loan move for the remainder of the season, with no option for Nice to make the transfer permanent.
Nice were able to secure Seidu’s services despite the closure of the French transfer window on September 1 after suffering a major injury setback involving defender Antoine Mendy.
Mendy sustained an ACL injury during Nice’s draw against Le Mans earlier this month, allowing the club to take advantage of the special provision that permits teams to recruit a ‘joker’ under specific circumstances.
Seidu’s arrival provides Nice with additional defensive depth and gives head coach Olivier Pantaloni another versatile option at the back.
The Ghanaian can operate as a right-back, right wing-back or centre-back, making his versatility particularly valuable as Nice deal with several unavailable players.
Pantaloni had already spoken highly of Seidu’s qualities before the move was completed, highlighting both his footballing ability and his character.
“We did our research on him and his footballing qualities. He can play in multiple positions […] we also had excellent feedback on his mindset. Despite his young age, he can be a leader in the dressing room. We really need that,” Pantaloni said.
Seidu now returns to Ligue 1 after joining Stade Rennais in January 2024 and making appearances across domestic competitions.
The move presents the Ghanaian with an opportunity to regain regular playing time while giving Nice valuable defensive reinforcement for the remainder of the campaign.
