Melvin Bard

Analysis: Bard will add another reliable presence on the left side of the Leeds defense, and if his performances are impressive enough, the Elland Road outfit has the option to sign him permanently at any point before the loan expires. Bard has been a regular starter at Nice in recent years, logging at least 24 appearances in each of the previous five seasons with the Eagles.

Jul 16, 2026

Trains fully, fit for new season

Bard (ankle) is training in full during preseason and is fully fit for the 2026/27 season with Nice under new coach Olivier Pantaloni, the club posted.

Analysis: Bard's clean bill of health is an encouraging sign after an ankle issue forced him off against Saint Etienne late last season. He was a consistent starter when available last year, contributing two goals and an assist while averaging 4.6 ball recoveries, 2.6 clearances and 1.8 tackles per game, and a fully healthy start to preseason under the new coaching staff positions him to regain that regular role at left back heading into the new campaign.