Nantes rules out Beckham bid as UK funds pursue takeover

FC Nantes has ruled out the possibility of a takeover involving David Beckham, but two British pension funds remain linked to a potential purchase of the club. The change narrows the current field without confirming that Waldemar Kita is about to sell Nantes.

One proposal reportedly combines former Nantes striker Nicolas Ouédec with other figures from the city and a British pension fund. The other comes from a British fund focused on trading and is considered a possible leading bid. A letter of intent was said to have been signed on Wednesday evening between Kita and one of the funds, following earlier discussions and a proposed agreement involving a €70 million condition.

The process remains uncertain. Previous attempts to sell Nantes have advanced without reaching completion, with financing guarantees and changes of position among the obstacles. Takeover talk has returned repeatedly during Kita’s roughly two decades as owner. Claims of a €100 million sale are not considered realistic.

The discussions come after a difficult period for the club. Nantes were relegated to Ligue 2 in May, while coach Michel Der Zakarian was dismissed after three defeats in the opening three matches. Supporter opposition to Kita has also remained strong, although he said recently that he had signed nothing and would consider a buyer able to provide the required funds.