Samsunspor’s gamble on Nice’s Spanish striker Kevin Carlos

Turkish side Samsunspor have opened talks to take Nice’s 25‑year‑old Spanish striker Kevin Carlos on a season‑long loan with an option to buy, L’Équipe reports. The forward arrived at the Côte d’Azur club last summer from FC Basel for €6 million on a contract running to 2030.

Samsunspor see Carlos as a player who can boost their attacking options after a modest first season in French football, where he made 35 appearances but contributed only two goals and one assist. His ambition to prove himself in one of Europe’s top five leagues aligns with the Turkish club’s aim to add a forward with a proven scoring record, highlighted by his 15 goals in 40 matches at FC Basel.

The Ceuta-born striker began his career in the youth system of SD Huesca before moving on to Real Betis and later Yverdon Sport, gaining experience across Spain, Switzerland and France. Those varied spells have given him a versatile profile that Turkish scouts find attractive for the Süper Lig.

Nice have not ruled out the loan, but they acknowledge that persuading Carlos to leave may be challenging, especially as he is eager to showcase his quality in a major European league. The French club retains the right to recall him before his contract expires in 2030, preserving flexibility should his development accelerate.

For Samsunspor, securing Carlos on loan with an option to buy offers a low‑risk route to acquire a forward who could become a permanent asset if he adapts to Turkish football. For Nice, the arrangement could free up wages and provide the player with regular minutes, while still protecting their long‑term investment.

The deal, compiled by Léo Aschi, underscores both clubs’ strategic calculations as they navigate the player’s next career step. If the loan materialises, Carlos will move from the Côte d’Azur to the Turkish coast, marking a new chapter for the Ceuta native.