Eintracht Frankfurt is loaning million-dollar misunderstanding Elye Wahi to OGC Nice in his French homeland until the end of the season. Wahi had not convinced in Frankfurt so far.
According to media reports, Nice does not have a purchase option for the attacker. There is speculation about a loan fee of 1 to 1.5 million euros. According to reports, the French first division club will cover the 22-year-old’s entire salary.
“We will follow his path closely and are convinced that a loan to an ambitious club makes the most sense for everyone in the current situation,” said Frankfurt’s sports director Markus Krösche. “We wish him all the best in Nice for the coming months and, above all, that he regains his self-confidence and self-image.”
Wahi should replace Marmoush
The loan to Nice ends a million-dollar misunderstanding. Eintracht signed Wahi last winter with high hopes as a replacement for top striker Omar Marmoush, who had moved to Manchester City, and gave him a long-term contract until 2030. According to media reports, Frankfurt paid 26 million euros to Olympique Marseille.
But Krösche, who has often shown a golden knack for transfers, brought a flop to Frankfurt this time. Because Wahi was in no way able to live up to the expectations placed on him. In 25 competitive games he only managed one goal. The departure to Nice therefore comes as no surprise – even if national player Jonathan Burkardt and veteran Michy Batshuayi are currently missing due to injury.
Ebnoutalib as a new hope Eintracht Storm
Instead of Wahi, Eintracht relies on Younes Ebnoutalib up front, whom Eintracht signed from second division club SV Elversberg on Monday. There is a transfer fee of around eight million euros plus bonus payments. According to “Bild”, the Frankfurters are also interested in Frenchman Arnaud Kalimuendo from Premier League club Nottingham Forest. Eintracht apparently wants to bring the 23-year-old to the Main metropolis on loan with an option to buy.