Official: Ghana defender Alidu Seidu joins Nice on loan

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 switch for the remainder of the season, with no option for Nice to make the transfer permanent.

Nice were able to bring in Seidu despite the closure of the French transfer window on September 1 after sustaining a significant injury to Antoine Mendy.

Mendy suffered an ACL injury during Nice’s draw against Le Mans earlier this month, allowing the club to make use of the special provision that permits teams to recruit a ‘joker’ under specific circumstances.

Seidu’s arrival provides Nice with additional defensive cover and gives head coach Olivier Pantaloni a player capable of operating in several positions.

The Ghanaian can play as a right-back, right wing-back or centre-back, versatility that is expected to be particularly useful with several players currently unavailable.

Pantaloni had already highlighted Seidu’s qualities before the move was confirmed, stressing that the Ghanaian’s ability extends beyond his performances on the pitch.

“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.”

Seidu now returns to Ligue 1 after joining Rennais in January 2024 and making appearances across domestic competitions.

The move also gives the Ghanaian an opportunity to regain regular playing time while providing Nice with a timely defensive reinforcement for the remainder of the campaign.

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