As the winter transfer window in European football approaches, news surrounding the Uzbekistan national team and "Manchester City" defender Abduqodir Husanov is gaining momentum. Various scenarios about the future of the 21-year-old central defender are being discussed in European media.
In recent months, the player's name has been linked to clubs such as "Lens", "Liverpool", and even "Real Madrid". The main reason behind these speculations lies in the fact that, despite head coach Pep Guardiola being pleased with Husanov's performance, the young defender has not been provided with sufficient playing time on a consistent basis.
“Nice” enters the race unexpectedly
According to reputable sources in French football, "Nice" has shown serious interest in the Uzbek defender. Struggling to find consistency since the start of the season, the club plans to rebuild its squad during the winter transfer period.
As reported by SPORT.FR, Nice management is primarily focused on strengthening the central defense. Meanwhile, Ligue 1 leaders "Lens" are also looking to bolster their squad ahead of the second half of the season and are continuing discussions with "Manchester City" to secure Husanov on a six-month loan.
Sources indicate that there is a significant likelihood that Husanov will return to France in January. However, his new destination might not be "Lens" but instead "Nice," which is seeking to resolve its defensive issues. Both clubs are reportedly aiming to acquire the player on a short-term loan basis.
Final decision rests with “City”
Husanov, who is under contract with "The Citizens" until mid-2029, values consistent playing time for his development. Therefore, "Manchester City" management may consider short-term transfer options to facilitate the defender's growth. If serious offers from "Lens" and "Nice" emerge, a genuine transfer battle in France could be on the horizon.
The impact of Franck Haise
According to JEUNESFOOTEUX.COM, the personal initiative of Franck Haise, the head coach of "Nice," could play a decisive role in this transfer. Haise, who previously worked at "Lens," reportedly wants to bring players he knows well into his team.
Currently, the futures of "Nice" key players — Jonathan Clauss, Terem Moffi, and Jérémie Boga — remain uncertain, forcing Haise to search for new talents.
Sources suggest that "Nice" could make a surprising move in their defensive line. Franck Haise is reportedly well aware of Husanov's situation in "Manchester City," where the defender has faced challenging circumstances, and intends to capitalize on this opportunity. A plan to bring the Uzbek defender back on a six-month loan stems from Haise's familiarity with the player, who left "Lens" for England a year ago for approximately 50 million euros.
Conclusion
For a team like "Nice," signing a physically strong, tactically valuable player like Husanov, eager to showcase his full potential, could be a significant step toward stabilizing their defense. The upcoming winter transfer window thus holds the potential to become a pivotal turning point in the career of the Uzbek footballer.
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