GSS, a British investment fund, are in talks to purchase Ligue 2 club Montpellier HSC, as per a report from L’Équipe. Former Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is involved in the deal.
The interest of a then-unnamed prospective British buyer emerged back in April. Back in the 2024/25 season, Laurent Nicollin made a public call for investment in the club. The MHSC owner has sent a ten-page document to the major French investment banks. “We are throwing a hook into the sea,” said Nicollin in the document, specifying that he does not wish to entirely sell the club, although, given the situation, there is pragmatism, and Nicollin conceded that he may have to become a minority shareholder of Montpellier. “Our fall has to be less painful at the end of the year,” he added.
Having dropped to Ligue 2 for the 2025/26 season, the club failed to return to the top flight. Like Stade de Reims, relegated the same season, they even failed to make the playoffs. And this summer, La Paillade could change hands.
As per L’Équipe, an agreement between GSS and Nicollin is drawing nearer. It is not confirmed whether it would be a full takeover or the purchase of a minority share. Gundogan is part of the GSS-led bid. Daniel Karbassiyoon, formerly of Arsenal, Burnley and Ipswich Town, is also involved in the bid.
