OGC Nice launches hunt for a new No.9

OGC Nice, sitting 16th with 32 points (7 W‑11 D‑16 L) and a –23 goal difference, has announced its intent to sign a striker capable of scoring this summer. After Kevin Carlos’ flop, the club has pinpointed Bamba Dieng and Simon Banza as its main targets.

Why the No.9 role matters for the Gym?

Kevin Carlos failed to score in 23 Ligue 1 appearances, a key factor in last season’s nightmare. The only relief came from loan signing Elye Wahi, who netted nine times in half a season before returning to Eintracht Frankfurt. With limited funds, Nice must rely on a player familiar with French football at a reasonable cost.

Bamba Dieng: the free and in‑form option

Senegalese forward Bamba Dieng is currently a free agent. He finished the 2025‑2026 season with 10 goals between January and May, earning a spot at the 2026 World Cup where he logged eight minutes against France. His free‑agent status has attracted Turkish clubs and Al‑Shabab in Saudi Arabia, but Nice believes his Ligue 1 experience (ex‑Marseille, ex‑Lorient) could be a major asset. Coach Olivier Pantaloni, who knew him at Lorient, may ease his integration.

Simon Banza: the experienced scorer for a loan

Former Lens striker Simon Banza shone at Braga (23 goals, 5 assists in 2023‑2024) and then at Trabzonspor (22 goals, 7 assists in 2024‑2025). After a stint in the UAE with Al Jazira, he remains available for a loan. His pure finisher profile appeals to Nice’s staff, who hope to negotiate a temporary deal to limit spending. Convincing his current club and the player to return to France remains the hurdle.

What are Nice’s next steps?

The Gym’s sporting director now must persuade both parties that the Nice project is attractive. A loan for Banza or a free‑transfer signing for Dieng could be sealed before the summer window closes. Meanwhile, the team keeps fighting to escape the relegation zone, having scored 37 goals and conceded 60 this season (‑23 goal difference) and still sits 44 points behind league leaders Paris Saint‑Germain.