Cameroonian defender Jérôme Onguéné is set to undergo a trial period with Ligue 2 outfit Red Star FC as the club evaluates the possibility of signing the free agent.
The 27-year-old centre-back has been without a club since his departure from German side Eintracht Frankfurt and is now eyeing a potential return to French football.
According to reports from Africasoccer, Red Star FC has expressed interest in assessing Onguéné’s current condition and suitability for their squad during the upcoming trial.
The defender is expected to travel to France shortly to take part in a series of fitness and performance tests.
Onguéné, who began his professional career at FC Sochaux, has experienced a journeyman path through European football.
After impressing in France, he made a move to Germany with VfB Stuttgart, and later enjoyed a successful stint with Austrian side RB Salzburg, where he gained Champions League experience and contributed to multiple league titles.
His subsequent moves to Genoa and Eintracht Frankfurt, however, were less impactful, with limited appearances and injuries hampering his progress.
Red Star FC, recently promoted to Ligue 2, are currently in the process of strengthening their squad for the challenges of the upcoming season.
The club sees Onguéné’s experience and defensive capabilities as a potential asset, particularly given his exposure to top-flight European football.
However, any decision to offer a contract will hinge on the outcome of the trial and his current physical readiness.
Despite his recent lack of competitive minutes, Onguéné remains an intriguing option on the market. His market value, according to Transfermarkt, stands at €250,000 — a modest figure that reflects both his potential and the risks involved.
Red Star’s management are keen to ensure that any signing contributes meaningfully to the squad’s development and stability as they return to Ligue 2 competition.
The trial will provide both player and club with a crucial opportunity. For Onguéné, it offers a chance to relaunch his career in familiar surroundings and possibly secure regular playing time.
For Red Star, it represents a low-risk opportunity to bolster their defensive line with a player who, at his best, has performed at a high level.
Born in Cameroon and capped by the national team, Onguéné’s international experience adds another layer of value.
Although his recent seasons have been interrupted by fitness concerns and inconsistent form, the defender’s technical ability, physical presence, and prior success in Austria make him a player worth evaluating.
Red Star’s decision to explore Onguéné’s potential highlights the club’s strategy of combining youthful prospects with seasoned professionals as they navigate their return to France’s second tier.
Club officials have not yet made any public statements regarding the timeline or expectations for the trial, but sources suggest a quick evaluation process is likely.
Should the trial prove successful, Onguéné could soon be donning Red Star’s colours, bringing with him not only experience but also a point to prove.
As the club continues its preparations for the new season, all eyes will be on the defender’s performance in the coming days.
