What happened: FC Lorient have confirmed that midfielder Laurent Abergel, 33, has terminated his contract by mutual agreement despite three years still remaining on the deal. According to L'Equipe, Abergel has agreed terms with Nice and is expected to travel south to finalize the switch to the Allianz Riviera.
Why it matters: The move ends a long association between Abergel and Lorient, who lose an experienced central midfielder before the new campaign. For Nice, securing an established Ligue 1 operator on personal terms adds depth and leadership to the midfield as the club builds toward 2026.
By the numbers: Abergel is 33 and walked away from three remaining years on his Lorient contract to engineer the move, with personal terms already understood to be agreed with Nice.
What to watch: Watch for Abergel to complete his medical and for both clubs to make the transfer official in the coming days.