Ivorian forward Elye Wahi rejects Hull City move as Nice return remains top priority

Ivory Coast international Elye Wahi has turned down the opportunity to join newly promoted Premier League side Hull City as he prioritises a return to OGC Nice.

The 23-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Nice from Eintracht Frankfurt and has made a return to the French club his preferred destination this summer.

Wahi played an important role in Nice’s battle against relegation, with his goals helping the club retain their Ligue 1 status.

However, financial restrictions at Nice meant the initial loan agreement did not include a purchase option, forcing Wahi to return to Eintracht Frankfurt at the end of the season.

Despite his return to Germany, the forward is keen to return to the Côte d’Azur and has reportedly made Nice his absolute priority.

Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing, although reaching an agreement is proving difficult because Nice currently do not have the financial capacity to make a significant permanent offer for the striker.

The discussions are instead centred on another loan deal, this time potentially including an option for Nice to buy Wahi at the end of the season.

Wahi’s desire to return to Nice appears to be strong enough for him to turn down alternative opportunities.

According to reports, the striker has rejected approaches from both Hull City and Lazio as he waits for developments regarding a potential return to the French Riviera.

The situation now depends largely on whether Nice can find an agreement with Eintracht Frankfurt that satisfies both clubs, with Wahi’s preference already clear.