FC Nantes have reached an agreement with Young Boys Bern for the transfer of Meschack Elia. The 27-year-old Congolese winger will join the Ligue 1 club on loan for the remainder of the 2024-2025 season, with an option to make the move permanent.
The deal is close to being finalized, with only a few details left to confirm, according to reports from L’Équipe.
The option to buy Elia is set at €3 million, allowing Nantes to secure the player on a permanent basis should he impress during his time with the Canaries.
Elia has been a standout performer for Young Boys since joining the club in 2020, making nearly 200 appearances and contributing 43 goals along with 41 assists.
His experience and consistent form have made him an integral part of the Swiss side.
A key addition to Nantes’ attack, Elia brings versatility to coach Antoine Kombouaré’s options, capable of playing both on the right wing and in a more central forward role.
This flexibility will be a valuable asset as Nantes look to bolster their attacking options in the second half of the season.
Kombouaré, keen to strengthen his squad, had been considering other attacking targets, including Kwadwo Opoku of CF Montreal and Steve Mounié of Augsburg. Ultimately, he opted for the Young Boys winger.
Elia, a Congolese international with 46 caps and 9 goals for his country, adds considerable experience to the Nantes attack.
The winger’s arrival follows the winter signings of Anthony Lopes and Francis Coquelin, as Nantes continue to refine their squad for the challenges ahead.
Elia is contracted to Young Boys until 2026, with his market value estimated at €5 million, according to Transfermarkt.
The official announcement of Elia’s move to Nantes is expected to be made in the coming hours, completing another important piece of business for the club as they aim to strengthen their position for the remainder of the season.
