There is French interest surrounding Sorba Thomas, with journalist Alan Nixon reporting via his Patreon that Ligue 1 side Nantes are monitoring the winger after an impressive Championship campaign. A move away from Huddersfield seems likely as a result of the club’s relegation.
The English-born attacker began his career for West Ham, before moving to Boreham Wood at youth level. For the National League side, he would progress season-on-season and was certainly an exciting prospect for the Wood.
Due to his strong performances in the fifth tier, a move to Championship side Huddersfield Town would be completed in the January of 2021. For the Terriers, he excelled in his first full season as the club finished third in the league. Thomas played a pivotal role in this success as he totalled 12 assists and a further three goals during the regular season.
In January 2023, the Welsh international would join Blackburn Rovers on a short-term loan in a bid to help the club reach the play-offs. However, they’d fall just short, as Rovers finished seventh. The winger would register just two assists during a 17-game spell and perhaps didn’t quite settle in.
Despite the brilliant finish in 2022, it has been somewhat of a steady decline for the West Yorkshire-based side. In the 2022/23 campaign, the Terriers would finish 18th and then in the following season, would be relegated to the third tier.
Despite last term being a disappointing one for the club, Thomas still showcased plenty of talent. The forward would put up 13 goal contributions, despite his side only scoring 48 goals.
Thomas’ versatility will no doubt be attractive to any potential suitors this summer, and he has displayed quality both on the wing or through the middle.
🤫On the brink of half time Town equalise courtesy Tom Lees. A brilliant whipped delivery by Sorba Thomas from the corner kick allows Lees to leap high beating Asmir Begovic all ends up. Fantastic goal and we are all square at the break! #HUDEVE #CarabaoCup #htafc pic.twitter.com/RywF3if6zD
— Raheil_m94 (@Raheil_m94) August 24, 2021
As a result of these talents, interest from Nantes has emerged. Journalist Alan Nixon first reported this as he stated the French side are bidding to take the transfer listed Thomas in a deal worth £1 million. Despite Transfermarkt labelling the player at a value of £3.5 million, Michael Duff’s side seems desperate to sell to fund new players.
The clubs are now said to be discussing the structure of the deal before allowing the player to speak with the Ligue 1 outfit. The report also states that there is domestic interest but the chance to play in Europe would attract him and increase his reputation. Therefore, a move abroad looks likely.
Writer’s View
Overall, this is a great move for both parties. Thomas will now have the chance to play in a new league with more opportunities. As for Huddersfield, as they are now in League One a focus on recruitment for the future will be necessary therefore selling players like Thomas will be crucial.
It was clear throughout his seasons in the Championship that he is way above League One level, suggesting that a move is needed now. However despite a move abroad appeasing the attacker, the change in the style of football and culture can be overwhelming and hurt some player’s careers. It could be a risky one for the winger but then again, at 25, he still hasn’t reached his ceiling.
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