Feyenoord is closing in on a deal to sign OGC Nice defensive midfielder Charles Vanhoutte, according to reports from 1908.
nl on June 16, 2026. The Dutch club aims to bolster its squad depth ahead of the new season.
The 27-year-old Belgian midfielder is expected to cost around €6 million. The transfer is reportedly in a very advanced stage.
Feyenoord currently has three defensive midfielders: Oussama Targhalline, In-beom Hwang, and Ramiz Zerrouki.
However, Hwang is anticipated to leave after the World Cup, and Zerrouki is not expected to return to the team facility despite being under contract.
This creates a gap in the defensive midfield role.
Technical director Dévy Rigaux recently outlined the club's squad-building strategy.
He emphasized the importance of establishing a core group of foundational players who provide long-term stability, rather than being acquired solely for future resale profit.
Other potential targets for the defensive midfield position include Stije Resink from FC Groningen and Lucas Gourna-Douath from Le Havre.
However, Resink is sidelined until next year after suffering a torn cruciate ligament in March, making Vanhoutte the primary target for the current transfer window.
