Heart of Midlothian are set to complete a club-record £1 million deal for Laurent Mendy after Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage described the move as 'life-changing' for the defender. The 24-year-old is expected to travel to Edinburgh for a medical ahead of the Scottish Premiership season opener against Aberdeen on August 1, though he will miss Heart of Midlothian' Champions League qualifier against Sturm Graz.
What did Robbie Savage say about the transfer?
Savage confirmed the agreement, stating: 'A deal has been agreed; it’s not finalised yet. The fee we’ve agreed will be a club record. If all targets are met, it’s close to seven figures, which for this football club is quite remarkable.' He added that Mendy has an 'opportunity to change his life' and praised Heart of Midlothian as an 'ambitious club'.
Why is this a significant move for Heart of Midlothian?
The potential £1 million fee would make Mendy one of Heart of Midlothian' most expensive signings in recent years. The defender, who joined Forest Green in 2022, has impressed in League Two and could bolster Heart of Midlothian' defensive options ahead of a busy season, including Champions League qualifiers and domestic competitions.
What happens next for Mendy?
Mendy is expected to complete his medical in Edinburgh soon, with the deal likely to be finalised before Heart of Midlothian' Premiership opener. However, he will not be available for the second leg of their Champions League qualifier against Sturm Graz, which follows a heavy first-leg defeat. Savage noted that while Forest Green are ambitious, they could not stand in the way of such an opportunity for Mendy.
