FC Metz president Bernard Serin has stated his desire for captain Matthieu Udol to stay with the club this summer, even with significant interest from RC Lens. However, Serin emphasized that the newly-promoted Ligue 1 side would not oppose Udol`s departure under all circumstances.
Serin clarified that Metz intends to build their team for the upcoming top-flight season around their captain, Udol, highlighting his crucial contribution to their recent promotion. The 29-year-old left-back was particularly impressive in the promotion play-off against Reims, directly involved in three goals (scoring two, assisting one) over the two matches.
“When you have a player like Matthieu, the goal is to build a competitive team around him, around the captain,” Serin explained, adding, “That`s precisely why we want to keep him.”
However, the Metz president adopted a pragmatic stance, stating the club would not “go to war” with their captain regarding a potential transfer. He concluded, “Ultimately, the decision rests with the club.”
Udol`s contract runs until June 2027, and it is understood he is open to a move to Lens, although no deal has been finalised. Reports indicate Metz would only consider letting him leave under two conditions: the interested club must not be a direct relegation rival, and a sufficient financial offer must be presented. If these conditions aren`t met, his continued presence in Moselle is expected.
Looking ahead to the new season, Metz has already signed Yannis Lawson (20) as a potential backup left-back. Udol is seen as a key figure who would form part of the team`s core alongside players like Benjamin Stambouli, Jessy Deminguet, and Gauthier Hein.
