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Montpellier lead the race against Watford to sign SM Caen striker Alexandre Mendy.

Watford have been dealt a blow in the race to sign SM Caen striker Alexandre Mendy, as Montpellier are in talks with their fellow French club to strike an agreement.

It was revealed earlier in July by Foot Mercato that both recently-relegated Montpellier and Watford were interested in signing the 31-year-old, with the latter contacting the player's entourage.

However, a recent development from journalist Josue Casse revealed that the two French sides are now in talks over a potential deal for Mendy, with Watford still yet to make an official approach to Caen.

Montpellier are looking to rebuild their squad after suffering relegation from Ligue 1, and see the Guinea-Bissau international as a top target this summer, as they aim to bounce straight back to the top flight.

The Hornets have recently added young Udinese striker Vivaldo Semedo to their ranks, and seemingly want another option up front, but could lose out on Mendy, who is entering the last 12-months of his contract.

Watford rivalled by Montpellier for Alexandre Mendy

Just twelve months ago, Mendy almost became an EFL player, as a move to Sunderland was in the works. However, Caen's hierarchy refused to let the striker leave the club, meaning he remained in the second tier of France.

However, interest from across the channel hasn't been short again, as this time around it's Watford who hold an interest in the Guinea-Bissauian, as they look to bolster their attack ahead of the forthcoming Championship season.

But the latest reports from Josue Casse suggest that the Hertfordshire outfit are trailing in the race with Montpellier to sign Mendy. La Paillade have been in talks with their Ligue 2 rivals, and the player is interested in the MHSC project.

Watford, who have recently signed striker Semedo, have yet to open talks with Les Vikings, but have spoken to the player's entourage.

So, as per the latest update, it seems Montpellier are leading the race to sign the forward.

Alexandre Mendy could be tempted to Watford after failed Sunderland move

As mentioned, it seemed Mendy was on his way out of France last summer, as Sunderland saw him as the answer to their goalscoring issues they encountered under Mike Dodds in 2023/24.

However, after the player had packed his bags and was ready to head to the North East of England, Caen's hierarchy made a U-turn, asking the Black Cats for more money than anticipated, and refusing to let the striker leave.

After this deal collapsed, it clearly affected Mendy greatly, who has since spoken out about the failed move, and the impact it had on himself and his family.

With that in mind, the 31-year-old could be tempted to finally make the move to the EFL with a point to prove after last season's transfer saga. This could certainly benefit Watford if it comes down to his decision between the two clubs.