Franco-Congolese defender Niels Nkounkou joins OGC Nice on loan from Eintracht Frankfurt

France international of Congo descent Niels Nkounkou will spend the 2026–27 season in France after completing a season-long loan move from Eintracht Frankfurt to OGC Nice.

The 25-year-old left-back has temporarily left the German Bundesliga, with Frankfurt and Nice reaching an agreement for the defender to join the Ligue 1 side for one season. The deal also includes an option to buy, meaning Nkounkou could make his stay at the Allianz Riviera permanent at the end of the campaign.

Should he impress and establish himself as an important member of the Nice squad, the Franco-Congolese defender may not return to Frankfurt after the conclusion of the 2026–27 season.

Nkounkou brings valuable experience to Nice, having played in several European leagues during his career. The versatile defender has previously featured in England, Belgium, France and Germany, giving him a wealth of experience despite still being only 25.

Comfortable operating as a traditional left-back or further forward as a left wing-back, Nkounkou is expected to provide Nice with additional options on the left side of the pitch. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively could prove useful as the club prepares for the challenges of the new campaign.

Speaking after completing his move, Nkounkou expressed his excitement about joining Nice and revealed that he had received positive information about the club from a close friend.

“I’ve spoken at length with Elye, who is a very good friend. He’s told me lots of good things about the club, the city and the supporters,” Nkounkou said.

“Now, above all, I can’t wait to get started, to get to know the squad and to give my all on the pitch. I hope to be able to help the team and have a great season.”

The move represents a return to familiar surroundings for Nkounkou, who has previous experience of French football. Nice will now hope the defender can quickly adapt to the team and become a key figure during the 2026–27 Ligue 1 campaign.

Frankfurt, meanwhile, will monitor his progress closely, particularly with the option-to-buy clause potentially determining whether Nkounkou has played his final game for the German club.