Montpellier boss denies trying to ‘poach’ Goosen

Editor

Montpellier owner Mohed Altrad has denied financially assisting former Springbok Johan Goosen during his time away from Racing 92 in order to poach him. 

Altrad has also denied claims that he organised his departure from the Parisian club.

Last December, Goosen controversially walked away from Racing 92 by claiming 'early retirement'.Rumours started to circulate soon after, claiming this was a way for Goosen to get out of his contract and eventually move to another club.

According to a SA Rugby Mag report, ltrad has denied having had contact with the player and playing a key role in his departure from Racing 92.

"They've not only accused me of having organised his departure from Racing, but also of paying him €50,000 (R800,000) a month since he left, and finally of wanting to buy him out [of his contract] so he plays for Montpellier … I don't know this player. I've never met him," said Altrad.

Altrad, however, did then admit he would jump to sign Goosen if he became available.

"I've seen him play. He's an excellent player," he added. "He hasn't played for months, but the day he'll be free it will interest me. However, at the moment Racing are blocking that.

"I have contact with [Racing owner Jacky] Lorenzetti via the agents to free the player. But if the situation is unblocked, Goosen will anyway not play this season at Montpellier and probably not next season.

"However, I'm interested to make a bet on the future and having this player under contract. It's my right to want to build a future to be able to progress."