FC Nantes is on the verge of securing a deal for Clermont Foot goalkeeper Mory Diaw, as the club braces for the likely departure of their current number one, Alban Lafont, to Ajax Amsterdam. The potential transfer of Lafont, who has been a standout performer for Nantes, has prompted the Ligue 1 side to intensify their pursuit of Diaw, a seasoned goalkeeper with a wealth of experience.
Lafont’s exit, which appears imminent as discussions with Ajax progress, has left Nantes in urgent need of a reliable replacement. Mory Diaw, currently under contract with Clermont Foot until June 2026, has emerged as the primary target.
According to reports from Ouest-France, an agreement between Diaw and Nantes is now in sight, marking a significant development in the club’s transfer activities.
The 31-year-old Diaw, who has been linked with a move to Nantes since the beginning of the summer, is well-regarded for his agility and shot-stopping abilities.
His performances in Ligue 1, despite Clermont’s struggles last season that led to their relegation to Ligue 2, have not gone unnoticed.
Nantes initially made approaches for Diaw in June and July, but their offers fell short of Clermont’s expectations.
However, with Lafont’s departure looming, Nantes has rekindled their interest, and it appears both parties are now close to finalizing a deal.
Diaw, a Senegal international and a member of the Lions of Teranga, has had a steady rise in his career, earning respect for his composure and leadership between the posts.
His potential move to Nantes represents a return to Ligue 1, where he will be expected to step into the shoes of Lafont, who has been a key figure for the Canaries.
Lafont’s performances, particularly during the 2022–2023 season, played a crucial role in helping Nantes maintain their top-flight status, making his departure a significant loss.
For Ajax, the acquisition of Lafont would be a significant coup, as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
The Dutch giants have identified Lafont as a key target, and his potential transfer would provide them with a goalkeeper of proven quality in Europe’s top leagues.
As Nantes and Clermont inch closer to a formal agreement, the focus will soon shift to how Diaw adapts to his new surroundings and whether he can replicate the form that made him a standout performer at Clermont.
For Nantes, securing Diaw would ensure they have a dependable presence in goal as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming Ligue 1 season.
With the transfer window nearing its close, both Nantes and Ajax are working against the clock to finalize these crucial moves.
If all goes to plan, Mory Diaw could soon be unveiled as Nantes’ latest signing, while Alban Lafont prepares for a new chapter in his career with Ajax Amsterdam.
