Portuguese heavyweights FC Porto are reportedly preparing to intensify negotiations with French side OGC Nice over the permanent signing of Nigerian striker Terem Moffi, with the club determined to lower the €8 million valuation attached to the player’s loan agreement.
The Super Eagles forward joined Porto during the January transfer window in search of regular football and a fresh start after a turbulent spell in France. His move to Portugal came amid growing uncertainty over his future at Nice, where he struggled to maintain consistency and reportedly fell out of favour following a difficult period for the Ligue 1 side.
Although Moffi has yet to fully establish himself as a guaranteed starter at Porto, club officials are believed to remain impressed by the striker’s overall qualities and are open to keeping him beyond the current campaign if favourable financial terms can be reached.
Portuguese outlet A Bola reported that Porto are unwilling to activate the full purchase option included in the original agreement with Nice. Instead, the club is expected to negotiate a reduced transfer package in the coming weeks as preparations for next season gather momentum.
Sources close to the Portuguese club suggest Porto believe the current market conditions and Moffi’s uncertain status at Nice could work in their favour during negotiations. The French club is reportedly prepared to listen to offers for the striker after deciding he no longer fits into their long term sporting plans.
Moffi’s struggles in France became increasingly visible during the first half of the season as Nice battled inconsistency in domestic competitions. Tension reportedly escalated after disappointing results triggered frustration among supporters, with some players, including the Nigerian international, facing criticism from sections of the fan base.
The situation eventually created doubts about the striker’s future at the Allianz Riviera and paved the way for his temporary switch to Porto in January.
Since arriving in Portugal, the 26 year old has made 15 appearances across all competitions, scoring two goals and registering one assist. While those numbers may not fully reflect his reputation as a prolific striker, Porto’s technical crew reportedly believes the Nigerian still has the qualities needed to succeed at the highest level.
Club insiders maintain that Moffi is still adapting to the demands of Portuguese football, particularly Porto’s tactical structure and high intensity style of play. Coaches at the club are said to value his movement, pressing ability, aerial presence and capacity to occupy defenders in difficult attacking situations.
Porto manager Francesco Farioli recently acknowledged that discussions regarding the player’s future are ongoing. Although the Italian tactician stopped short of confirming whether the club would complete a permanent move, he admitted the final decision would depend largely on financial considerations and negotiations between both clubs.
Moffi’s career trajectory in Europe has been one marked by resilience and steady progression. After beginning his professional journey in Lithuania, the striker attracted attention during his spell with Belgian club Kortrijk before earning a move to Lorient in the French Ligue 1.
It was at Lorient that the Nigerian established himself as one of the most exciting African forwards in French football. His pace, intelligent positioning and finishing ability made him a constant threat against top opposition, while his goals played a key role in helping the club maintain its top flight status.
His performances at Lorient eventually earned him a high profile move to Nice, where expectations surrounding him increased significantly. Moffi initially impressed after arriving at the club, producing important goals and strong attacking displays during his early months.
However, injuries, fluctuating form and increasing pressure from supporters later disrupted his momentum. By the middle of the current season, speculation surrounding his future had intensified, leading to his eventual loan switch to Porto.
Despite the challenges he has faced in recent months, Moffi remains highly regarded within Nigerian football circles. The striker has continued to feature in discussions surrounding the Super Eagles attacking options, particularly because of his experience playing at a high level across multiple European leagues.
Football analysts believe a permanent move to Porto could provide the stability needed for the striker to rediscover his best form. Porto’s competitive environment, regular involvement in European competitions and strong developmental structure are viewed as factors that could help revive the Nigerian’s career.
For Porto, securing Moffi on reduced financial terms would also represent smart business in an increasingly competitive transfer market. The club is expected to strengthen its attacking department ahead of next season, especially with uncertainty surrounding the futures of several senior forwards.
As the summer transfer window approaches, negotiations between Porto and Nice are expected to accelerate. Whether the Portuguese giants can convince the French side to lower their demands may ultimately determine where Moffi continues his career next season.
For the Nigerian striker, the coming weeks could shape the next phase of his professional journey as he seeks stability, regular playing time and a return to the form that once made him one of the most feared African forwards in European football.
