FC Nantes takeover plan faces growing scrutiny

FC Nantes’ proposed change of ownership is facing increasing scrutiny as its ambitious presentation meets questions over the investors and the financing. Paulo Tavares and Phenix Sports Invest want to replace Waldemar Kita and have outlined plans to reshape the club’s leadership, modernise its facilities and expand its commercial activities. The agreement still requires regulatory approval.

The proposed transaction could reach €125 million, despite Nantes currently playing in Ligue 2 and owning neither the Beaujoire stadium nor the Jonelière training centre. Around €30 million is said to have been placed in a blocked account ahead of the DNCG examination, but the regulator must still assess whether the financial structure is sufficiently secure.

The project includes stronger merchandising and sponsorship operations, player trading and a stated aim of returning Nantes to Ligue 1 quickly. Former Brazil defender Marcelo has been approached for an ambassadorial role, while Snoop Dogg has been linked with a future club museum. Those elements have added visibility, but they have also made the plan appear more ambitious than conventional.

Doubts have deepened around some of the backers, while Tavares has previously been connected with takeover attempts that did not reach completion. Nantes supporters’ group Brigade Loire has urged caution and greater transparency, arguing that the end of the Kita era alone does not establish the project’s credibility.