Belgian club Anderlecht has submitted a €2.7 million bid to acquire CF Montréal midfielder Nathan Saliba, intensifying an ongoing transfer discussion between the two teams. The 21-year-old Canadian international has attracted attention due to his promising performances, and this potential move reflects Anderlecht’s interest in securing young talent from North America.
Olivier Renard’s move from Montréal to Anderlecht shapes transfer interest
Olivier Renard, former Sporting Director at CF Montréal who departed last May after disagreements with CEO Gabriel Gervais, is now managing Anderlecht’s sporting affairs. Since taking up the role at the historic Belgian club in late October, Renard has targeted several young Canadian players, including Saliba. His familiarity with Montréal’s squad gives him an edge in negotiations.
Official offer and transfer details emerge
According to Belgian source Les Sports and MLS insider Tom Bogert, Anderlecht’s bid for Saliba is not just speculative but formally lodged. Journalist Fabrizio Romano corroborated these reports, confirming the €2.7 million offer, which includes potential bonuses. Despite ongoing conversations between Anderlecht and CF Montréal, no agreement has been finalized as of yet.
Contract status and recent player performance
Saliba’s current contract with CF Montréal extends through the end of the year, although the club holds an option to prolong it by another season. He was named Canada’s Men’s National Team Young Player of the Year after breaking into the squad last summer, making two appearances in 2024 under coach Jesse Marsch, including a September 7th win over the United States. At the club level, Saliba featured in 27 matches last season, helping Montréal reach the Eastern Conference wildcard round, and was nominated for the MLS Young Player of the Year Award.
Interest from European clubs and the player’s own ambitions
Before the start of the 2025 MLS season, Saliba drew attention from European clubs, particularly in France and Germany. Eintracht Frankfurt, who recently qualified for the UEFA Champions League by finishing third in the Bundesliga, was among those reportedly interested. Saliba expressed his desire to play in Europe, stating last autumn that his
“dream is to go to Europe.”
Meanwhile, Montréal’s president Gabriel Gervais acknowledged some club interest but noted that at the time no concrete offers had been received.
Potential impact of a transfer on CF Montréal and Canadian soccer
Losing a young homegrown talent of Saliba’s caliber would be a setback for Montréal, especially during a challenging season when Saliba has been a consistent starter. However, the club, known for its youth development and frugal approach to spending, would view a lucrative sale to a European league—even one considered second-tier—as a success. For the Canadian national team, having players regularly competing in competitive European leagues benefits their growth and experience. Past examples include players like Jonathan David, Tajon Buchanan, and Promise David, who have flourished after moving to the Belgian Pro League.
Other Canadian prospects targeted by Anderlecht
Renard’s interest in young Canadian talent at Anderlecht extends beyond Saliba. Reports indicate the club is also pursuing Croatian club Hajduk Split’s versatile midfielder Niko Sigur, signaling Anderlecht’s strategy to strengthen their squad with promising international players. The Belgian Pro League remains an attractive stepping stone for emerging talent aiming to develop in Europe’s competitive environment.