Montpellier defender Modibo Sagnan is nearing a move to Turkish side Çaykur Rizespor, with negotiations between the two clubs accelerating significantly in recent hours.
Rizespor have submitted a formal offer of €3.5 million to Montpellier HSC for the 25-year-old Malian international.
The proposal also includes a three-year contract for the player, with an optional fourth year built into the terms.
Sagnan, a left-footed centre-back, has been on Rizespor’s radar for more than a week. Discussions between both clubs have since progressed, with Montpellier reportedly willing to part ways with the defender as they seek to reduce their wage bill and streamline the squad ahead of the new Ligue 1 season.
The French club is said to have clearly communicated to Sagnan that he is no longer part of their long-term plans. With the player open to new opportunities and the Turkish side keen to finalise the deal swiftly, a transfer now appears increasingly likely.
Sagnan’s potential departure comes as part of Montpellier’s wider restructuring strategy. The former Real Sociedad player, who joined Montpellier from the Spanish club, has struggled to cement a regular starting position in recent months and has been earmarked for a summer exit.
While Rizespor are currently leading the race for the Malian defender’s signature, they are not alone in their pursuit. Several other clubs remain in contact with Montpellier regarding the player’s availability.
English Championship side Blackburn Rovers, along with newly promoted Premier League outfits Leeds United and Sunderland, have all expressed interest in bolstering their defensive units with Sagnan’s experience.
In addition to interest from the UK, sources close to the player suggest that there have been exploratory contacts with clubs in Italy, though no formal bids have yet been made from Serie A or Serie B sides.
Sagnan, who is currently under contract with Montpellier, is said to be intrigued by the prospect of a move to Turkey. Rizespor’s ambitions, combined with the promise of regular playing time, have made the Süper Lig outfit an appealing destination for the defender as he considers the next step in his career.
The Malian international, who has been capped at youth level for France before switching allegiance to Mali, is seen as a valuable asset in the market due to his physical presence, ability to play out from the back, and versatility across the defensive line.
If the transfer goes through, Sagnan would join a growing list of Malian players making moves in the European summer transfer window. As things stand, negotiations are continuing positively between all parties, with a resolution expected in the coming days.
Montpellier’s need to offload players and Rizespor’s urgency to bolster their defence ahead of the new Süper Lig campaign could see the deal concluded swiftly—pending agreement on final terms and a successful medical.
