Clearly, Clermont is active on the transfer market. Looking for an opener, the people from Auvergne are in contact with the English international with 96 caps, George Ford.
A financial transaction
Unfortunately, the Bath player will not be at the end of his contract until June 2026. Information which could put a damper on Clermont’s wheels. Because to afford the player’s services, the Auvergne will have to buy out his last year of contract. Still according to Midi Olympique, ASM would have sent a substantial offer to Sale in an attempt to secure the services of George Ford. The 31-year-old Englishman is at a turning point in his career and can (finally) become number one in his position after the departure of Owen Farrell to Racing 92. Beyond the financial aspect, it remains to be seen whether the player is ready to give up the XV de la Rose to come and play in France.
Departures in the workforce
The opening of this file shows a real desire on the part of Clermont’s leaders to equip themselves for this position. And for good reason, Benjamin Urdapilleta, who arrived two years ago, announced his retirement at the end of the season. The Anthony Belleau case is also very vague. At the end of the contract in 2025, we do not know if the former Toulon player fits into Christophe Urios’ plans.
RUGBY. TOP 14. ”I won’t do the +1”, Christophe Urios (ASM) straight into his boots about his future
This game of musical chairs is being played behind the scenes even as the manager is in the process of extending his contract for three additional seasons.
ASM has other avenues
But even before coming into contact with George Ford, Clermont had already been active on the transfer market. In fact, the club is in advanced contacts with Enzo Hervé, lacking playing time on the RCT side and who will see Matéo Garcia land next season.
TRANSFER. TOP 14. Garcia at the RCT, Clermont also works on a young opener to avoid being overtaken
New Zealand Blues Harry Plummer is also in the sights of the leaders. A distinguished striker, the fly-half is unfortunately hampered by very tough competition from the All Blacks and has never managed to impose himself.
Clermont is at a turning point and is already preparing for next season, between extending the staff and recruiting international stars. The position of opening half will not be the only project, with the end of the contracts of several non-JIFFs executives like Marcos Kremer, Pita-Gus Sowakula, Rob Simmons or Bautista Delguy.
