FC Nantes: works council votes unanimously against Paulo Tavares buyout

FC Nantes’ works council (CSE) has voted unanimously to issue an “avis défavorable” against the takeover plan backed by Paulo Tavares, following the signing of the sale agreement between the Kita family and investors led by the businessman. As reported by Ouest France, the committee said it has serious doubts over the reliability and financial viability of the project.

In a message sent to all staff, the CSE warns of “unfair, serious and irreversible” consequences for jobs, the company’s future and the club’s overall outlook, and urges supporters to mobilise and oppose the plan. The council also insists the club cannot be sold without guarantees about its future, competitiveness, continuity and respect for its history.

Still not a done deal

Although the “avis défavorable” is only consultative, key steps remain before the sale can be final. The takeover must still go through the DNCG, the sport’s financial regulator, which could block the deal. The proposed price is expected to exceed €100m and could rise to €125m with bonuses, after Nantes was paid €10m back in 2007.