Simon Ngapandouetnbu is attracting interest from two Ligue 2 clubs as his future at Olympique de Marseille remains uncertain despite being under contract until 2026.
The 22-year-old Cameroon international enjoyed a standout campaign on loan at Nîmes Olympique, registering 11 clean sheets across 26 appearances.
His consistent performances, however, were not enough to prevent the club from being relegated. Now back at Marseille, Ngapandouetnbu faces an unclear path, with the Ligue 1 side reportedly open to extending his contract while actively seeking to loan him out for the 2025/26 season.
Sources close to the situation have told Africasoccer that Red Star FC and Le Mans FC are both keen to secure the goalkeeper’s services on a temporary basis.
The two sides are preparing for competitive campaigns in Ligue 2 and view Ngapandouetnbu as a potential key addition to strengthen their squads.
Red Star, a historic Paris-based club, recently returned to the second tier and are eager to build on their momentum. Meanwhile, Le Mans earned promotion from the Championnat National and are determined to solidify their status in Ligue 2. Both teams see the acquisition of a reliable shot-stopper as essential to their respective objectives.
Ngapandouetnbu, who has progressed through the Marseille youth system, has yet to break into the senior squad on a consistent basis.
Despite being rated highly by coaching staff and having earned international recognition with Cameroon, his pathway to the first team remains blocked by more experienced goalkeepers.
The prospect of another loan move is being viewed as the most viable option to ensure his development continues through regular playing time.
Red Star and Le Mans are both offering the promise of minutes between the posts—something Marseille cannot currently guarantee.
While discussions remain ongoing, the goalkeeper’s future is expected to be resolved in the coming weeks.
Marseille are reportedly open to a loan arrangement that includes provisions for significant playing time, suggesting they view Ngapandouetnbu as a long-term asset.
This latest development signals that, although not immediately in Marseille’s plans, Ngapandouetnbu is far from being cast aside.
The potential loan could provide him with a platform to sharpen his skills and demonstrate his readiness for top-flight football upon his return.
Both Red Star and Le Mans are well aware of what the young goalkeeper brings to the table. His agility, shot-stopping prowess, and calmness under pressure made him a standout performer at Nîmes, even in a team battling against relegation.
With his profile rising, interest in his services could intensify if negotiations do not proceed swiftly.
For now, the ball is in Marseille’s court, but the interest from Red Star and Le Mans presents a promising opportunity for a player determined to carve out a successful career in French football.
