Benjamin Bouchouari: Nice linked with move for Morocco-Belgium midfielder from Trabzonspor

Morocco-Belgium midfielder Benjamin Bouchouari is reportedly attracting interest from Ligue 1 side Nice, with the 24-year-old currently at Turkish club Trabzonspor and his future the subject of growing transfer speculation.

The central midfielder, born in Borgerhout on 13 November 2001, is listed with a market value of 4.50m on Transfermarkt, the same figure attached to the latest rumour linking him with a switch from the Super Lig to the French top flight. The probability of the move is not yet rated, with the deal still described as a rumour and no fee or contract details disclosed.

Bouchouari joined Trabzonspor from French club Saint-Etienne on 4 September 2025 after his performances in Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 had raised his profile. His contract length in Trabzon has not been made public and no expiry date is listed, leaving open the possibility that he could either negotiate a transfer this summer or run down his deal and move later as a free agent.

A right-footed central midfielder standing 1.65m tall, Bouchouari has built a career on technical play between the lines and versatility in the middle of the pitch. Before his move to Turkey, he had already experienced senior football in the Netherlands with Roda JC Kerkrade, having progressed through youth systems at SK Beveren, Genk, Anderlecht, KV Mechelen and Willem II before stepping into Fortuna Sittards under-19 set-up.

His market value has fluctuated sharply in recent seasons, rising from 50,000 at Roda JC in late 2020 to a peak of 6m shortly after his arrival at Trabzonspor in October 2025, before easing back to 4.50m by May 2026. That trajectory suggests Nice may view him as a relatively affordable option in a competitive midfield market.

Bouchouari has remained a regular for Trabzonspor in 2025-26, including his latest outing in the Super Lig a 2-1 win against [opponent not specified] earlier this year although detailed match statistics are not provided in the available data. His current national-team status is not listed, with only his club career recorded.

With the rumour emerging on 5 July 2026 and no official comment from the clubs involved, it remains to be seen whether Nice will follow up their interest and test Trabzonspors resolve, but a move back to France at this stage of his career would be a significant step in shaping Bouchouaris reputation at the top level if it materialises.