FC Metz are on the verge of completing a deal to sign Cristian Devenish from Portuguese second-division side AVS, according to L’Équipe. Negotiations between the two clubs have resumed successfully in recent hours, raising hopes that the Colombian defender will join the Ligue 1 outfit.
Devenish, 25, is expected in Metz this week, potentially as early as Tuesday, should final negotiations prove successful. The club anticipates a three-year contract for the player. The transfer fee is reported to be around €1 million, following Metz’s recent acquisition of Idris Mohamed for approximately €300,000.
Metz are seeking to bolster their defensive options, particularly with uncertainty surrounding the future of Michel Mboula. The club is also considering loan moves for Abdoulaye Nassoko and Adam Marchal this summer. This pursuit of Devenish demonstrates a clear intention to add depth and competition in a potentially unstable area of the squad.
Initial approaches for Devenish were met with resistance from AVS, who sought a larger share of any future transfer profit. However, both clubs have reportedly compromised, paving the way for the current agreement. Devenish previously visited Metz and was present at a friendly match against Seraing on July 17th, suggesting a pre-existing interest from both parties.
Devenish’s arrival would provide manager László Bölöni with another option at centre-back, adding to the squad’s versatility. The signing could allow Metz to navigate a busy season with greater defensive stability as they aim to consolidate their position in Ligue 1.
