Nice one for Rambo as Wales ace signs
AARON Ramsey has signed for Ligue 1 side Nice on a free transfer.
The 31-year-old, who was released by Juventus earlier in the summer, was unveiled by the French side on Monday evening, after a summer of speculation over his next move.
Cardiff City were an early favourite with the bookies, although it’s understood a return to the capital was never on the agenda.
Following Wales skipper Gareth Bale to the MLS was also mooted as a possibility, with Charlotte FC mentioned as a potential suitor.
However, Ramsey has now plumped for a spell in Ligue 1. In a short statement confirming the move on Twitter, Ramsey wrote, in French: “New chapter at OGC Nice. Can’t wait to get started. Issa Nissa!!!”
The length of his contract, and indeed the terms of his stint with the French side aren’t yet known, but his arrival has clearly sparked plenty of excitement across the Channel.
Announcing the move, a club statement read: “After signing several young players, this time, it’s a vastly experienced player who has transferred to Le Gym: the talented and charismatic leader, Aaron Ramsey.
“The midfielder, who has also played 81 continental matches, including 65 in the Champions League, is excited by the challenge of playing for Les Rouge et Noir this coming season.
“Welcome to your new home, Aaron.”
Ramsey may well come up against one of his Wales teammates this season, with Joe Rodon completing a seasonlong loan move to Rennes just hours before Ramsey’s arrival.
Rodon, who has struggled for game time at Tottenham since arriving from Swansea City in 2020, could well end up staying beyond the end of the campaign, with reports suggesting there could be an option to buy in the terms of the deal.
Speaking about Rodon’s arrival, Olivier Cloarec, Executive Chairman and General Manager of Rennes, said: “He is a player who has a lot of desire and who is happy to arrive in Rennes. He will bring aggression in our defense.
“It was one of the points that we wanted to improve compared to last season.
“Joe fulfills all the criteria of the profile sought. As an international, he needs to play. He also contributed a lot to the qualification of Wales for the World Cup. He is a true leader on the field.”