Forest Green Rovers have sold defender Laurent Mendy to Scottish Premiership side Hearts in a club-record deal worth up to £1 million. The 25-year-old joined Forest Green from Macclesfield in 2025 and made 47 appearances last season, helping the club finish 7th in the National League with 81 points (23W-12D-11L).
What happened?
Mendy's transfer to Hearts marks the highest fee ever received by Forest Green Rovers. The Nailsworth-based side confirmed the move after the defender impressed during his debut season, scoring twice and providing three assists. Mendy, who can play as a center-back or defensive midfielder, becomes Hearts' second signing of the summer.
Why it matters for Forest Green
Manager Robbie Savage, who previously worked with Mendy at Macclesfield, praised the deal as a major step for both player and club. "It's an unbelievable opportunity for Mendy," Savage said. "I couldn't stand in his way-this move will progress his career and benefit his family, while also bringing a record fee to Forest Green."
What comes next?
Forest Green now face rebuilding their defense ahead of the new National League season. With 27 points separating them from leaders York last season, Savage will look to reinvest the Mendy fee wisely. The club ended the 2025 campaign with a 1-0 loss to Boreham Wood and lost their last two matches (LLWWL).
