OGC Nice are set to sign promising midfielder Xavier Junior Mandza on a professional contract, despite a late offer from Juventus, according to L’Équipe. The 17-year-old, who had been attracting attention from clubs across France and Europe, is expected to sign a deal with his formative club until June 2029.
Mandza’s future had been uncertain with only one year remaining on his current aspiring contract, leading to increased interest from several clubs. Juventus reportedly made a move this weekend, submitting a bid of €3 million to Nice for the young player. However, the Ligue 1 club swiftly rejected the offer, demonstrating their commitment to retaining the talented midfielder.
The decision by Nice’s leadership reflects their belief in Mandza’s potential and a plan to integrate him into the first team under manager Olivier Pantaloni. The club intends to provide opportunities for the young player to develop within the senior squad, signaling a clear pathway for his progression. Mandza is currently an international for France at the Under-17 level, further highlighting his promise.
Mandza has risen through the ranks at Nice, establishing himself as a player to watch within their youth system. His ability to dictate play from midfield and his technical skills have drawn praise from within the club. The signing of a long-term professional contract represents a significant step in his career and a boost for Nice’s youth development program. This commitment ensures Nice retains a highly-rated prospect and potentially benefits from his future growth and market value.
The rejection of Juventus’s bid underlines Nice’s ambition to build a competitive squad around promising young talents, and this move solidifies their commitment to nurturing homegrown players. The swift resolution of the situation suggests a strong relationship between the club and the player, paving the way for a successful professional career at the Allianz Riviera.
