Metz win race to sign Comoros defender Idris Mohamed from Le Puy

FC Metz have reached an agreement to sign Comoros international defender Idris Mohamed from Le Puy Foot 43 Auvergne, strengthening their back line as they target an immediate return to Ligue 1.

The 22-year-old, who enjoyed a standout season with Le Puy in the Championnat National (National 1), is set to join the Lorraine club on a four-year deal, according to Foot Mercato. The transfer fee is understood to be around €300,000, with additional performance-related bonuses written into the agreement between the two clubs.

Mohamed, capped four times by Comoros and part of the Cœlacanthes set-up, had attracted strong interest during the current transfer window. Both French and overseas sides had made approaches for the defender, with Maritimo in Portugal and Italian clubs Monza and Frosinone among the most serious contenders for his signature.

In the end, Metz emerged as the successful bidders, securing a player who had become one of the most sought-after prospects at National 1 level following his convincing 2023-24 campaign with Le Puy.

Contract details and valuation

Mohamed is poised to commit to Metz for the next four seasons, giving the club long-term security in a key defensive position. He had been under contract with Le Puy until 30 June 2027, a deal that underlined his importance to the third-tier side.

His market value is currently estimated at €350,000 by Transfermarkt, slightly above the fixed part of the fee agreed between Metz and Le Puy, with the gap potentially bridged by the agreed add-ons if sporting objectives are met.

Metz eye Ligue 1 return

Relegated from Ligue 1 and now rebuilding with the explicit aim of promotion at the first attempt, Metz view Mohamed as an important addition in their push to construct a squad capable of competing at the top end of Ligue 2.

By bringing in a young international defender already tested in senior football and attracting significant outside interest, Les Grenats are looking to solidify their defensive options while also investing in potential resale value.

The move marks the next step in Mohamed’s rapid rise, taking him from the third tier of French football to a club aiming to re-establish itself in the top flight, while giving Metz additional depth and competition in central defence ahead of the new season.