Saint-Etienne in advanced talks to sign Everton left-back Niels Nkounkou, deal could be done in days
Saint-Etienne are reportedly in advanced talks to secure the services of Everton left-back Niels Nkounkou in the January transfer window.
According to Le Parisien journalist Benjamin Quarez, he could move to the French side on loan in the coming days.
The 22-year-old has been out on loan at EFL Championship side Cardiff City this season but could see that cancelled in order to move to Saint-Etienne.
Via Twitter, Quarez wrote, “Saint-Etienne in advanced discussions for the loan of left side Niels Nkounkou.
The OM-trained defender has been on loan from Everton to Cardiff since the start of the season. He could join Forez in the coming days.”
Makes sense
It’s a move from one second division club to another second division one, so on paper, it does not seem like it’s too much of an upgrade.
However, moving to his home country may perhaps be what he needs to get his confidence back and that could impact his performance as well.
We’re unsure as to whether or not he would prefer the move, but our initial reading of the situation is that it could be on the cards.
He has been a regular starter for Cardiff this season so it’s not like he would want to leave for game time and it could be more to do with the fact that he wants to be closer to family.
It remains to be seen how this loan spell transpires as a decision will have to make over his future at the end of the season.
He’s even been subject to bids from Belgium in the past so there undoubtedly is a market for him if Everton do end up cashing in on him.