Cameroonian goalkeeper Simon Ngapandouetnbu out of Montpellier’s reach this summer

Montpellier HSC have abandoned their pursuit of Cameroonian goalkeeper Simon Ngapandouetnbu after failing to meet Olympique de Marseille’s requirements for a potential transfer during the summer window.

Following their relegation to Ligue 2, Montpellier have been actively reshaping their squad with the aim of returning to the top tier of French football.

Reinforcements in the goalkeeping department had been identified as a pressing need, prompting the club to explore several candidates, including Ngapandouetnbu.

Initial talks were held earlier this week between Montpellier officials and Marseille to assess the feasibility of a deal for the 22-year-old. However, it soon became apparent that the financial and contractual terms demanded by Marseille would prove too difficult for the Hérault-based side to meet.

Ngapandouetnbu remains under contract with Marseille until June 2027 and is currently valued at €500,000 by Transfermarkt. Despite not being an immediate part of head coach Roberto De Zerbi’s plans at the Stade Vélodrome, Marseille have shown no intention of offloading the talented young keeper at a discount.

The Cameroonian international impressed during a recent loan spell with Nîmes Olympique in the French third division, playing 26 matches and recording 11 clean sheets.

His performances demonstrated both his current ability and potential, strengthening Marseille’s stance that only a substantial offer would warrant a sale.

Montpellier’s pursuit of Ngapandouetnbu appears to have been exploratory rather than definitive. According to sources close to the club, their top priority in goal remains Yann Liénard, who is viewed as a more realistic acquisition given the club’s current financial constraints and strategic direction.

While the interest in Ngapandouetnbu underlined Montpellier’s ambition to secure a high-calibre shot-stopper for their promotion campaign, the club’s leadership have now acknowledged that the Marseille goalkeeper will not be part of their plans for the upcoming season.

Ngapandouetnbu’s situation at Marseille, meanwhile, remains one of watchful patience. Though not in the immediate first-team picture, his potential and steady development—particularly during his stint at Nîmes—make him a player of interest for the future.

For now, he is expected to continue training with the squad under De Zerbi’s supervision while awaiting further decisions regarding his role or possible loan opportunities.

As for Montpellier, the search for a reliable first-choice goalkeeper continues, with the club eager to finalise its squad ahead of the Ligue 2 campaign. The aim remains clear: to build a resilient, promotion-ready side capable of restoring the club’s place among France’s elite.