Nice and Lens battle for Morocco’s Belammari as summer transfer race heats up

French clubs OGC Nice and RC Lens have emerged as potential destinations for Moroccan international Youssef Belammari, with both Ligue 1 sides reportedly preparing moves for the defender during the 2026 summer transfer window.

According to Moroccan outlet HerPress, the two clubs are closely monitoring the 27-year-old left-back, who is currently part of Morocco’s squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Although Belammari did not feature in the Atlas Lions’ opening match against Brazil, his presence on the international stage has further increased attention surrounding his future.

Belammari currently plays for Egyptian giants Al Ahly, having joined the club after developing through the ranks of Raja Casablanca. The defender remains under contract with the Cairo-based side until June 2029, meaning any interested club would need to negotiate a transfer agreement.

Despite his long-term contract, Belammari is considered an affordable option, with his market value reported at around €1.2 million, making him an attractive target for clubs seeking an experienced and reliable defensive reinforcement.

For Nice, a move for Belammari could be linked to uncertainty surrounding the future of long-serving left-back Melvin Bard, who has been a regular figure in the squad since joining the club in 2021. The club is expected to reshape its squad following changes in the technical department ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Lens, meanwhile, are also looking to strengthen their defensive options as they prepare for a campaign that includes UEFA Champions League football. Belammari is viewed as a possible competitor and backup option for Matthieu Udol on the left side of defence.

The Moroccan defender’s experience at both club and international level, combined with his relatively modest valuation, has made him a desirable target for both Ligue 1 sides.

With Nice and Lens both keen to strengthen their squads ahead of the new season, Belammari’s future could become one of the transfer stories to watch once Morocco’s World Cup journey comes to an end.

Kwaku Nii

Kwaku Nii is an experienced football writer with a strong background in African football reporting. He has spent over five years working as a freelance journalist, covering matches, transfers and key developments across the continent.He is university educated and has built a reputation for his deep knowledge of the African game, supported by a wide network of contacts within the football industry.Kwaku brings valuable insight, consistency and on-the-ground perspective to his reporting, making him a trusted voice in covering African football stories.He is currently a Staff Writer at African.Football, where he contributes to delivering informed, engaging and reliable football content to a global audience.

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