Alban Lafont could be set to leave FC Nantes this summer, with manager Michel Der Zakarian indicating the goalkeeper will be allowed to depart if a suitable offer arrives. The 27-year-old recently returned to training with Nantes after representing Côte d'Ivoire at the World Cup, where his team was eliminated in the round of sixteen.
Lafont joined Nantes in 2021, making 198 appearances in all competitions for the club, but spent last season on loan at Panathinaikos, featuring in 37 matches across all fronts. However, the Greek club opted not to pursue a permanent deal. He currently has a contract with Nantes that runs until 2027.
Der Zakarian clarified that Maxime Dupé, who arrived from Nice this summer, is currently his first-choice goalkeeper. “He (Lafont) is with us today, it’s up to him to work,” Der Zakarian stated in a press conference. “He was at the World Cup, he came back quickly, he wanted to work. The priority today is Max (Dupé), it’s not Alban (Lafont).”
When pressed on the possibility of Lafont leaving, Der Zakarian confirmed that a departure is likely. “Yes, of course,” he said. “But if he is to stay, he will train with us and then we’ll see.” The situation leaves Lafont’s future uncertain as the Ligue 1 season approaches, though Nantes appear open to allowing him to find regular first-team football elsewhere. This move would allow Dupé to establish himself as the clear number one at the club.
Der Zakarian also briefly addressed the situation surrounding another player, Mohamed, stating, “We don’t know where he is.” Further details on Mohamed’s status were not provided.
