Nantes near Klasnic capture

Wigan pull out of deal for Croatia striker

By Patrick Haond   Last updated: 7th July 2008

Klasnic

Klasnic: Nantes talks

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Nantes are in talks with Ivan Klasnic after Wigan pulled out of the race for the striker's signature.

The Croatian international, who is a free agent after his contract at Werder Bremen expired, impressed at Euro 2008 after recovering from two kidney transplants to take his place in manager Slaven Bilic's squad.

Wigan were believed to be keen on Klasnic, but boss Steve Bruce has reportedly ended his interest after research discovered that the 28-year-old struggles in colder climates following his kidney problems.

And Nantes are now in pole position to land Klasnic - who has also been linked with Newcastle, Torino and Besiktas - and sport director Christian Lariepe has confirmed that discussions are taking place.

"We are still working on Klasnic's possible arrival," Lariepe told L'Equipe. "We are waiting for an answer."