Aboukhalal Nears Ligue 1 Return with Relegation-Threatened Nantes

French club Nantes, currently battling at the bottom of the league table, is actively exploring the Italian market for urgent solutions to bolster its attacking line. Moroccan international Zakaria Aboukhalal has emerged as a prime target, a move that could see him swiftly return to Ligue 1 after a brief and unsuccessful spell with Torino.

According to consistent reports, Nantes is close to reaching a near-final agreement with Torino for Aboukhalal's loan until the end of the current season, with an option to buy. This deal is part of an urgent strategy by "The Canaries" management to reinforce the team with experienced players, having previously secured names like Rémy Cabella, Deiver Machado, and veteran striker Youssef El Arabi.

Aboukhalal had joined Torino during the last summer transfer window from Toulouse for approximately 8 million euros, arriving with high expectations following his impressive performances in French football. However, the Moroccan player struggled to adapt to the rigorous tactical demands of Serie A, making only 8 appearances without managing to score or assist any goals.

Nantes' management is banking on Aboukhalal's strong familiarity with the intricacies of the French league, which he accumulated during his successful spell with Toulouse. They believe his speed and ability to penetrate defenses could be a decisive addition to the team in its fight for survival. For his part, former Moroccan international Ahmed El Kantari, the team's current coach, believes Aboukhalal's attributes align with Nantes' attacking needs at this critical juncture.

French media reports indicate that the player has already held initial discussions with the technical staff, with final details pending completion. The official announcement of the deal is expected in the coming days, making Aboukhalal one of the key assets Nantes is banking on to avoid the specter of relegation.