RC Strasbourg Alsace have emerged as the latest club interested in signing FC Lorient playmaker Pablo Pagis, intensifying competition for the 23-year-old forward who has signalled his desire to leave the Breton side this summer.
Strasbourg enter the race
The BlueCo-owned outfit have added their name to an increasingly crowded list of potential suitors. Strasbourg are monitoring the situation closely as they look to bolster their attacking ranks ahead of the new season.
Pagis, a product of the Lorient academy, enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in the recent term. He scored 10 goals across 28 Ligue 1 appearances, establishing himself as one of the division’s promising attacking talents despite Les Merlus enduring a difficult season.
Valuation and contract standoff
Although Pagis has entered the final 12 months of his contract, Lorient president Loic Féry is refusing to lower his demands. Reports suggesting a €10 million fee would secure the player have been dismissed by the club chief, who values the attacker at €20 million.
The Frenchman has made clear his wish to depart the Stade du Moustoir. However, with his deal not expiring until 2025, Lorient retain negotiating power and appear prepared to hold out for their asking price rather than risk losing a valuable asset for nothing in a year’s time.
Multiple suitors across Europe
Strasbourg face stiff competition from domestic rivals. Paris FC, RC Lens and Olympique Lyonnais have all expressed interest in the playmaker. Beyond France, unnamed clubs from England and Germany have also positioned themselves as contenders for his signature.
Given the breadth of interest, Féry’s €20 million valuation appears increasingly achievable. Pagis now faces a crucial period as he seeks to secure a move that aligns with his career ambitions, while Lorient must decide whether to bank the fee now or risk a protracted standoff with a player determined to leave.