Former Manchester United forward Anthony Martial is on the verge of completing a surprising transfer to Mexican giants CF Monterrey. Renowned journalist and transport expert Fabrizio Romano recently revealed that the French striker has already agreed terms with the Liga MX side.
Romano also mentioned that Martial is set to undergo a medical soon before finalizing the deal. Martial’s departure from AEK Athens comes just a year after he signed a record contract with the Greek club. Through that deal, he became their highest-paid player in history.
Notably, he only managed nine goals and two assists in 24 appearances for the club. Hence, his hefty wages proved problematic. New manager Marko Nikolic also left him out of the UEFA Conference League squad. This further signalled that the 29-year-old was no longer part of the club’s plans.
Martial’s high salary has been a sticking point in recent months. Mexican side Pumas pursued the striker earlier in the summer. However, they failed to meet his financial demands. Journalist Cesar Luis Merlo noted: “AEK is willing to loan him to Pumas free of charge, but Martial earns a gigantic salary, gigantic.”
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Even after comprehensive talks between both sides, which lasted several days, the forward refused to lower his terms. Naturally, the move collapsed. Monterrey is one of the wealthiest clubs in North America. Hence, they had no such issues and are prepared to pay around $4.5 million (€3.8m) to secure his services.
At Monterrey, Martial is set to join a star-studded squad that already includes World Cup winner Sergio Ramos, former LaLiga midfielder Sergio Canales, and Argentine winger Lucas Ocampos. Once his signing is confirmed, Martial will immediately become the club’s most valuable player.
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Once a world-record teenager signing for Manchester United in 2015, he scored 90 goals in 317 appearances for the Red Devils. However, he struggled with recurring injuries and inconsistent form. He left Old Trafford in 2024 after nine years, writing an emotional farewell to fans: “Manchester United will always be in my heart… I’ll always be a Red Devil.”
Now, just months after leaving Europe, Martial finds himself at a crossroads. He had to seek to revive his career in Mexico. Monterrey are competing at the top of Liga MX and boasting one of the strongest squads in the Americas. Hence, this move could provide the Frenchman with a much-needed fresh start.
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