ASM Clermont Auvergne, looking for reinforcements for next season, is active on the transfer market. The Auvergne club made an ambitious offer to attract George Fordthe English international fly half. An operation which, if it comes to fruition, could change the face of the team.
A substantial offer for a world-class player
George Ford, currently in Sale Sharksis under contract until 2026. But that did not prevent Clermont from formulating a significant financial proposal to try to buy out his last year of contract. Ford, with 96 selections in the England team, is an experienced fly-half who could greatly strengthen the Auvergne squad.
Clermont seeks to compensate for the imminent departures from this position, in particular that of the Argentinian Benjamin Urdapilletawho will retire at the end of the season. Uncertainty also hangs over the future ofAnthony Belleauat the end of his contract in 2025, which pushes managers to act quickly to ensure the future of the team. According to RugbynistèreASM is ready to make great efforts to attract the English opener and meet these needs.
Ford, a risky choice for the future?
If George Ford accepts Clermont’s offer, he will have to give up his chances of continuing to play for the XV of the Rose. Indeed, a departure for France would exclude him from the national selections, a difficult choice as he approaches the 100 selections.
However, this transfer could offer Ford a new dynamic in a competitive championship like the Top 14. With the departure ofOwen Farrell au Racing 92Ford has the opportunity to become one of the stars of European rugby, and Clermont offers him this possibility.
Tough competition on the transfer market
Clermont is not the only club interested in Ford. Other teams of Top 14 are also monitoring the situation, including Bordeaux-Bègleswho could act according to the decisions of Matthew Jalibert for next season. Clubs like Castres and even the French Stadium could also try their luck, as reported RugbyPass.
Clermont is preparing for a renewal
The recruitment of Ford is part of a broader strategy for Clermont, which anticipates several departures within its workforce. Key players like Marcos Kremer, Pita-Gus Sowakula or even Rob Simmons reach the end of the contract. The club therefore wishes to strengthen itself with players of international caliber to maintain its level of competitiveness.
This possible transfer of George Ford would be a strong sign of the ambitions of Clermont, ready to invest heavily to remain at the top of the table. Top 14.
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