OGC Nice in transfer mode: Kevin Carlos on Samsunspor's radar

OGC Nice has confirmed that forward Kevin Carlos is attracting interest from Turkish side Samsunspor. According to L'Équipe, the club has already opened preliminary talks with the player, who currently wears the Nice jersey. This approach comes as Nice sit 9th in the Ligue 1 table, 0 pts, and have not scored a single goal this season (0 scored, 0 conceded). Carlos' possible departure could therefore leave a significant offensive gap.

Why is Samsunspor targeting Kevin Carlos?

The Istanbul club, recently bolstered financially, is looking to add a young, versatile striker. Kevin Carlos, 23, has shown in Coupe de France appearances an ability to create space and finish chances. Samsunspor hopes his Ligue 1 experience, albeit limited, will bring dynamism to their attack. The club's scout, Ahmet Yıldız, reportedly said the player has "a good game reading and effective finishing," qualities needed for the 2026‑27 season.

What could this mean for OGC Nice?

Losing Carlos would force manager Francesco Farioli to rethink his forward line. Currently Nice have few offensive options, and the goal drought (0 scored) highlights the need for reinforcement. Farioli may look to the winter market or promote a youth prospect like promising academy talent Youssouf Diarra. The club could also negotiate a loan with an option to buy, keeping a future claim on the player.

What are the next steps?

No official date has been set for a formal offer. Sources say Samsunspor is preparing a financial proposal, but the exact figure remains confidential. OGC Nice, meanwhile, is waiting to see if the player truly wishes to leave the Côte d'Azur. Fans will watch closely for statements from president Jean‑Pierre Rivère, who has already stressed the importance of retaining key talents. In the meantime, the transfer window stays active, and every move will be closely examined.

Current club context

As Nice sit 9th in Ligue 1, 0 pts, with a defense that has not conceded yet but an attack that has yet to open (0 scored, 0 conceded), Kevin Carlos' future becomes a major talking point among supporters and analysts.