Nice are reported to be making serious progress in securing a transfer for 27-year-old French striker Odsonne Édouard from Crystal Palace. According to multiple outlets, advanced talks are underway between the Ligue 1 club and the Premier League side. Notably, Édouard has already turned down a move to Spanish club Girona and appears keen to return to France.
Édouard originally came through Paris Saint-Germain’s youth ranks and later spent time on loan at Toulouse. He later shone during his spell at Celtic, where he was prolific. However, since joining Palace in 2021, his performances have underwhelmed. He has struggled to score consistently and saw his playing time reduce further during a loan at Leicester City last season.
This summer, Édouard seems determined to reignite his career. He reportedly declined a potential switch to Girona, favoring a move closer to home instead. Nice appear to offer that opportunity, and the player’s willingness to join them potentially strengthens the club’s position in talks.
For Palace, a sale this summer may be timely. Édouard is entering the final year of his contract, and selling him now would avoid the risk of losing him for free next year. Nice are looking to take advantage of this situation and have reportedly made meaningful progress in negotiations.
Interestingly, Celtic are keeping an eye on the situation as well. The former Hoops striker remains a fan favorite, and there have been whispers about a possible return to Glasgow. That said, manager Brendan Rodgers has made it clear that Édouard is not currently in his plans, citing the need for players who fit into his system beyond just their name.