Brighton & Hove Albion have not made any approach for Mahamadou Aboubakar Nagida, despite recent speculation linking the Cameroonian left-back with a move to the Premier League club.
Nagida, who endured a testing campaign with Stade Rennais during the 2024/25 Ligue 1 season, featured in 13 top-flight matches, scoring twice and showing glimpses of his attacking ability from defence.
In addition to his first-team appearances, the 21-year-old also turned out for Rennais’ reserve side in National 3, where he continued to impress with his technical skill and versatility.
Reports emerged earlier this month suggesting that Brighton were closely monitoring the young defender, potentially as part of their summer recruitment strategy.
However, sources close to the player have since dismissed these claims, stating that there has been no direct or indirect contact from the English club.
According to information gathered by 237foot, there is no truth to rumours linking Nagida to the Amex Stadium.
Representatives of the player confirmed that neither the player nor his management have held talks with Brighton, and no interest has been formally expressed by the club.
The premature speculation comes at a time when Nagida’s future remains the subject of genuine uncertainty. While he is under contract with Stade Rennais until 2028, his limited role in the first team and continued involvement with the reserves have raised questions about his next steps.
A loan move remains a strong possibility, with several clubs in France and beyond reportedly exploring options for the developing talent.
Nagida’s market value currently stands at approximately €800,000, according to Transfermarkt, reflecting both his potential and the limited top-level experience he has acquired so far.
A product of Cameroonian youth football, the full-back has steadily built a reputation for his strong defensive positioning, willingness to join the attack, and composure on the ball.
While Brighton may not be in the picture, Nagida’s performances have not gone unnoticed. His dual role across two levels of French football this season has demonstrated both resilience and adaptability—traits that make him a promising prospect for clubs seeking to develop young talent.
For Stade Rennais, the question now is whether to integrate Nagida more fully into the first team or to allow him to gain experience elsewhere.
With competition for places fierce and the club aiming to challenge higher up the Ligue 1 table, any decision regarding his immediate future will need to balance both the club’s ambitions and the player’s development needs.
What remains clear is that, contrary to earlier reports, Brighton are not pursuing Nagida. As the summer transfer window unfolds, the left-back’s next move will likely be determined by the strategic vision of Rennais and the level of interest from clubs prepared to invest in a player with considerable promise but who still requires regular minutes to realise his potential.
Until then, Mahamadou Nagida continues to train with Stade Rennais as preparations for the new season get underway, focused on the next opportunity to prove himself—wherever it may come.
