NEOM SC have successfully completed the signing of French defender Nathan Zézé from FC Nantes for €20 million plus €3 million in add-ons, making him the most expensive sale in Nantes’ history. The 20-year-old centre-back has chosen Saudi Arabia over Premier League interest, signing with the newly promoted Saudi Pro League side.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the completion of the move with his announcement: “NEOM SC have signed Nathan Zézé for €20m plus €3m add-ons.” The young Ivorian-born central defender, Nathan Zézé, is set to sign with Saudi club NEOM for a transfer fee of €20 million. This represents a major coup for the Saudi club in their first season in the top flight.
Nantes centre-back Nathan Zézé (20) is on the verge of signing for promoted Saudi Pro League side Neom SC, according to a report from L’Equipe. The France U21 international has agreed to pursue his promising career in Saudi Arabia. The deal marks one of the biggest transfers of the summer window for a player of his age.
Record-Breaking Transfer
According to Foot Mercato, Nantes centre-back Nathan Zeze will join Saudi Pro League newcomers Neom in a deal worth over €20 million. The transfer fee makes Zézé the most expensive departure in Nantes’ history, surpassing previous record sales from the French club.
The total package of €23 million including add-ons reflects the high regard in which European clubs held the defender, with multiple Premier League sides having tracked his progress throughout the season.
Premier League Interest Rejected
The 20-year-old Frenchman accepted Neom’s offer despite interest from Villarreal, Inter, and several Premier League clubs. Nantes defender Nathan Zeze has rejected a Premier League move to join Saudi Pro League outfit Neom SC.
Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Everton had all expressed strong interest in the defender, with some clubs having made official approaches to Nantes. Everton and Aston Villa are now set to see Nathan Zeze, who they have both been linked with this summer, taken off the table as an option, as he is set to undergo medical with Saudi Arabian side NEOM tonight.
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Medical Completed Successfully
Zeze is due to undergo a medical and complete his move to Neom in the coming days. Recent reports confirmed that the defender successfully passed his medical examination, clearing the final hurdle for the transfer to be completed officially.
The timing of the medical and contract signing allows Zézé to join NEOM’s pre-season preparations as they gear up for their debut campaign in Saudi Arabia’s top division.
Player Profile and Development
Zézé came through Nantes’ youth academy system and established himself as one of France’s most promising young defenders. His performances in Ligue 1 caught the attention of scouts across Europe, with many comparing his style to established Premier League defenders.
The France Under-21 international has been praised for his defensive awareness, pace, and ability to play out from the back, making him an ideal fit for modern football’s tactical demands. His versatility to play across the defensive line adds value to any squad.
NEOM’s Ambitious Project
The SPL newcomers recently snapped up ex-PSG keeper Marcin Bulka, with Alexandre Lacazette and Said Benrahma also on the books. Zézé’s arrival continues NEOM’s strategy of attracting established European talent to their squad for their inaugural top-flight campaign.
The Saudi club’s investment in proven players demonstrates their ambition to compete immediately in the Saudi Pro League rather than focusing solely on survival in their first season.
Financial Impact for Nantes
The transfer fee represents crucial revenue for Nantes, allowing them to reinvest in their squad while maintaining financial stability. The record-breaking sale validates their youth development programs and ability to produce players capable of commanding significant transfer fees.
Nantes can now use the funds to strengthen their squad for the upcoming Ligue 1 campaign, having successfully developed and sold one of their most valuable assets.
At NEOM, Zézé will have the opportunity to establish himself as a regular starter in one of the world’s most lucrative leagues. The Saudi Pro League’s growing profile and financial backing provide an attractive platform for young players to develop their careers.
His move to Saudi Arabia represents the latest example of the league’s ability to attract promising European talent, with Zézé joining a growing list of players choosing the Middle East over traditional European destinations.
