Mohamed Abdelmonem has turned down a lucrative offer worth about €5m from the Gulf and will remain with OGC Nice, according to reports.
The Egypt international was approached directly several weeks ago with a proposal that would have represented a significant financial opportunity. However, the central defender decided not to accept the offer as he continues to pursue his career on the French Riviera.
Abdelmonem’s decision reflects his determination to establish himself at OGC Nice rather than seek an immediate move elsewhere. He joined the club with the aim of taking another step in his European career and is understood to want more time to adapt before pushing for a leading role in the squad.
The player’s refusal brought the matter to an end before any formal discussions could take place between OGC Nice and the interested club. No official negotiations were opened, with Abdelmonem making it clear that he did not want to leave his current team.
The details of the approach were reported by Cedric Rocancourt, who said the direct proposal had been made a few weeks earlier. The offer was considered particularly attractive financially, but it did not change the defender’s position.
Abdelmonem’s market value is estimated at €2.5m, meaning the reported offer was approximately double that valuation. Despite the difference between the two figures, the Egypt international has chosen to focus on competing for his place at OGC Nice.
According to exclusive information from Africafoot, Al Ahly had also shown interest in signing Abdelmonem. That proposal was rejected by the player as well, leaving him set to continue with OGC Nice.
The defender’s immediate focus will be the club’s opening match of the French league season, when OGC Nice face FC Lorient. The fixture will provide an early opportunity for Abdelmonem to demonstrate his progress and strengthen his case for a prominent position within the team.
Betting company 1xBet lists OGC Nice as the favourites for the match, with a price of 2.05 for a home win. A draw is priced at 3.30, while FC Lorient are listed at 3.05 to win.