Hearts Transfer Agreement: Laurent Mendy Deal Nears Completion

Hearts have agreed a transfer agreement to sign Forest Green Rovers captain Laurent Mendy, with the midfielder set to become the club's 10th summer signing. The 29-year-old French-born player has been on Hearts' wanted list for the past two transfer windows, and a January bid was rejected. Now, a deal has finally been struck.

Mendy joined Forest Green in 2025 from Macclesfield and played 47 games last season for the English National League side. Talks regarding personal terms are under way as Hearts prepare for the first leg of their Champions League second-round qualifier against Sturm Graz on 20 July 2026.

Forest Green boss Robbie Savage described the proposed transfer as a club-record deal for the National League side. Speaking after a 2-2 pre-season outing against Bristol Rovers, Savage said Mendy's expected move should send a clear message to players across the lower leagues that exceptional performances at Forest Green can earn life-changing opportunities. "It goes to show that any player looking from the lower leagues, all eyes are on this club. You perform, look what can happen," Savage said.

Savage also praised club owner Dale Vince and vice chairman Asif Remnwhala, stating that Forest Green are under no financial pressure to sell players. The deal has been described as 'life-changing' and 'unbelievable' for Mendy, who will join a Hearts side preparing for a Champions League qualifier.

Forest Green are expected to sign a Liverpool loanee and a new striker as they look to replace their captain. The transfer represents a significant step for Mendy, who has risen from the National League to a potential Champions League participant.

For Hearts, the signing adds depth to a midfield that will need to compete on multiple fronts, including European football. The club's recruitment strategy has been aggressive this summer, with Mendy becoming the 10th new arrival. The deal also highlights the growing trend of Scottish Premiership clubs targeting talent from the English lower leagues.

As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on Tynecastle to see how Mendy fits into the squad and whether he can make an immediate impact in the Champions League qualifiers.