Nice hand Wahi fresh chance to earn permanent move from Eintracht Frankfurt

OGC Nice have confirmed the return of Elye Wahi on a season-long loan from Eintracht Frankfurt, with an option to buy the striker for €15m.

The Ivorian international impressed during the final part of last season in the colours of Nice and will now wear the club’s shirt again. The French side announced the agreement on its social media channels.

Wahi was keen to continue his time on the Cote d’Azur after enjoying his first spell with the club, and his wish has now been granted. The 23-year-old is returning to a familiar environment where he quickly rediscovered his goalscoring form.

During his initial stint at Nice, Wahi made 19 appearances and played 1,332 minutes. He scored nine goals, including five in Ligue 1, and also provided two assists.

His contribution was particularly valuable during a difficult campaign for OGC Nice in terms of results. The former Montpellier, Lens and Marseille forward regularly delivered in important matches, with his influence especially clear in the Coupe de France.

On 22 April, Wahi scored twice in a 2-0 victory over Strasbourg. His goals helped Nice secure a place in the final of the competition. He was decisive again several weeks later in the second leg of the play-off against AS Saint-Etienne.

Wahi scored two more goals as Nice won that match 4-1 on 29 May. The result played a significant part in helping the club preserve its place in France’s top division.

The new loan gives the striker another season to build on the promise he showed in his first spell. The €15m purchase option means the move could eventually become permanent, allowing Wahi to establish himself in the south of France on a long-term basis.

For Nice, his return represents a significant attacking addition and another opportunity to rely on a forward who proved capable of making the difference when the team needed him most.

Wahi remains under contract with Eintracht Frankfurt until 30 June 2030. His current market value is listed by Transfermarkt at €18m, while his annual salary in Germany is reported to be €3,770,000, equivalent to 2,450,500,000 FCFA.

Nice will soon play their second match of the French championship against Paris FC. The betting company 1xBet lists Nice at 3.20 to win, a draw at 3.30 and a Paris FC victory at 2.10.