Nice linked with Watford midfielder Imran Louza in Ligue 1 return

Moroccan-French midfielder Imran Louza, who currently plays for Watford, has been linked with a move to Nice in Ligue 1.

The 27-year-old central midfielder joined Watford from French club Nantes in July 2021 for a reported €10m fee and has since established significant experience in English football. He spent part of the 2023-24 season on loan at Lorient before returning to the Championship side permanently.

Louza has made 111 Championship appearances for 15 goals and 21 assists, while also featuring in the Premier League during his time at Watford. His overall senior career includes 72 appearances in Ligue 1, where he scored 10 goals and provided eight assists for Nantes.

A move to Nice would represent a return to France for the left-footed midfielder, who was born in Nantes and developed through the city’s youth system before progressing into the club’s senior side.

There is no indication that an agreement has been reached, and the proposed transfer remains at the rumour stage. Louza’s current contract with Watford runs until 30 June 2028, meaning the Championship club retain him on a long-term deal as interest from Nice emerges.