Montpellier FC have completed three signings this summer, including the return of Solène Durand in defence, as the Hérault-based club eyes a top-half finish in Ligue 2. With 51 points from 34 games, Montpellier sit 8th, the club is reinforcing its squad with experienced profiles to push for promotion.

Who are the three new signings?

The first name announced is Solène Durand, returning to the club after six seasons away. The 31-year-old goalkeeper, who trained at Montpellier between 2009 and 2011, had already played for the first team between 2011 and 2017 before joining Guingamp. Her return brings stability to a defence that has conceded 31 goals this season, as the club looks to tighten up at the back and push for a top-five finish.

Laura Bourgouin arrives with plenty of Arkema Première Ligue experience. The 33-year-old forward leaves Marseille to join Montpellier, bringing her offensive know-how to the squad. Her profile fits the club’s needs, as Montpellier have scored 41 goals this season but must refine their attack to stay competitive against sides like ESTAC Troyes, 16 points clear of MHSC in the promotion race.

Finally, Natalia Oleszkiewicz completes the trio. The Polish international, arriving from Trabzonspor, arrives with an impressive record: 30 goals last season. Her addition strengthens Montpellier’s attack as the club looks to close the gap on the leaders and prepare for the rest of the campaign.

Why do these signings matter for Montpellier?

These three arrivals address a clear need: strengthening the squad to push for promotion to Ligue 1. Despite a solid season with a positive goal difference (+10), Montpellier must still improve to compete with the best. Durand’s return brings valuable experience between the posts, while Bourgouin and Oleszkiewicz should add dynamism up front.

The club is banking on experienced profiles to avoid last season’s mistakes. With recent form fluctuating (DLWWD), Montpellier need consistency to string together positive results. These signings fit a clear strategy: closing the gap on the leaders, as the club remains 16 points behind Troyes, and preparing for the rest of the season with players capable of making the difference.

What’s next for Montpellier?

Montpellier have now completed part of their summer transfer business, but the work isn’t over. The club must now integrate these new arrivals into the squad and get them playing as soon as possible. The next official match is on 12 February 2027 at home against Reims, as MHSC sit 6th in the table.

The rest of the season promises to be tight, with key matches against direct rivals for promotion. Montpellier fans can hope to see these new signings quickly in action as the club looks to cut the gap on the leaders and confirm its ambitions for the campaign ahead. The schedule is packed, and every point will count in the push for the final objective.