The LFP does not allow coaches aged over 65 to join French clubs. Ranieri is 65 and the Ligue 1 outfit have requested a waiver from the LFP and are waiting for a response before finalising the deal.
Lens went to the European Commission to push through the recruitment of Guy Roux in 2007, but Nantes do not intend to go that far and will comply with the LFP’s decision.
Ranieri was sacked by Leicester in February, just nine months after leading the English side to a stunning Premier League triumph.
It was the first league title of the Italian’s career, although he has won major cup trophies in both Spain and his home country.
