FC Nantes Sale Agreement Reached, Kita Family Era Nears End

The FC Nantes is on the verge of a new chapter, with a sale agreement finalized between the Kita family and an investor group spearheaded by entrepreneur and sports advisor Paulo Tavares.

After 19 years under the Kita ownership, FC Nantes is transitioning. Journalist David Phelippeau reported on Tuesday that the club might soon have a new owner. An agreement has been signed between current owner Waldemar Kita and buyers led by Paulo Tavares, director of Phenix Sports Invest. The purchase price is reported to be €125 million.

The journalist noted the sum surprised many, with Paulo Tavares claiming to have raised over €300 million from French, Luxembourger, and Portuguese investors, describing them as individuals rather than funds. He added that this figure seems detached from the club's current reality: a struggling Ligue 2 team with an outdated training center and aging stadium. Previous reports suggested figures closer to €20-40 million, more aligned with the club's situation.

Champagne and Halilhodzic Approached

Paulo Tavares, a former agent, has previously attempted club takeovers, including at Valenciennes in 2019 and Saint-Étienne in 2023, without success. He also partnered with a Chechen businessman to acquire Neuchâtel. David Phelippeau mentioned that online searches about Paulo Tavares reveal doubts and uncertainties, leading to significant skepticism among supporters and questions about the project's viability.

The businessman is keen to own a club and aims to restore FC Nantes' reputation after their relegation to Ligue 2 last season. The journalist described Tavares as a persuasive speaker about his vision for Nantes. Several names have surfaced for potential roles in the new setup, including Jérôme Champagne for president and Vahid Halilhodzic, who was approached for a managerial position but declined.

Before the transfer can be completed, the acquisition must be reviewed by the club's works council and approved by the DNCG, French football's financial regulator.