Former Super Eagles captain and Everton legend Joseph Yobo has called on compatriot Moses Simon to make a long-awaited move to the English Premier League, should he part ways with French Ligue 1 side Nantes in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Simon Linked with Summer Exit Amid Relegation Concerns
Simon, 29, is reportedly set to leave Nantes FC at the end of the season if the club is relegated from Ligue 1. While his current contract runs until June 2026, the club may consider a sale to raise sustainability funds.
Several European clubs have expressed interest, including Olympique Marseille, Olympique Lyon, Stade Rennes, and Premier League outfit Everton.
Yobo: Premier League Is the Right Move
In an exclusive interview with Africa Foot, Yobo—who made over 200 appearances for Everton—insisted that Simon has the quality and experience to thrive in England’s top flight.
“I don’t know the truth in the news that he wants to leave Nantes, but if he should leave, it has to be the Premier League where he plays next,” Yobo said. “It has been long overdue given his ability, versatility and experience.”
The former Nigerian international went on to say:
“I mean, why not? He is, and has always been good enough for English Football, it’s long overdue.
And, for me, if he went there, it would be the pinnacle of his career, because it’s the best and most competitive league in the world.”
Yobo also endorsed a potential move to Everton, citing both tactical fit and cultural familiarity.
“If the reports of Everton’s interest are true, and most importantly serious, then, that would even be better.
I played in Merseyside for close to a decade, and I know the football culture there, it’s massive.
It would be a fitting move for him, as his directness and speed are well suited at Everton.”
Solid Season for Simon in Ligue 1
Simon has been one of Nantes’ key attacking players this season, with seven goals and nine assists in 31 appearances across Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France. He has made 199 appearances for the club since joining in 2020, scoring 36 goals and registering 39 assists.
Veteran Presence in the Super Eagles
On the international stage, Simon is among the most experienced players in the current Super Eagles setup. He has earned 77 caps for Nigeria, scoring nine goals and contributing 13 assists, and remains a regular figure in the squad.
With a Transfermarkt valuation of €12 million, Simon could be poised for a high-profile move—one that Yobo believes should bring him to the biggest stage in club football.
