Lukáš Hrádecký on Verge of Joining AS Monaco from Bayer Leverkusen

AS Monaco are set to sign veteran goalkeeper Lukáš Hrádecký from Bayer Leverkusen. Both clubs are close to reaching an agreement, with negotiations ongoing as reported.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Hrádecký agreed to personal terms with Monaco last week. Now, he is waiting for the clubs to finalize the deal. The Finnish international, 35, leaves Bayer Leverkusen after seven years, during which he made 286 official appearances and served as club captain according to sources. Though Monaco’s offer of €2 million was rejected, negotiations continue. Both clubs are trying to finalize the transfer before the window closes.

WHY MONACO WANTS HRÁDECKÝ

Monaco finished 3rd in Ligue 1 last season and qualified for the Champions League. Their new season started well, and they need Hrádecký’s experience at the back. With over 100 caps for Finland, Hrádecký brings leadership and reliability. He can help Monaco challenge Paris Saint-Germain and perform well in Europe. His presence can narrow the gap to PSG, who led the table after the opening rounds.

WHAT NEXT FOR BOTH CLUBS?

Bayer Leverkusen, the 2023-24 Bundesliga champions and last season’s runner-ups, are overhauling their squad under new manager Erik ten Hag. They signed Mark Flekken as their new number one, making Hrádecký’s departure likely following the manager’s plans. Meanwhile, Monaco prepares for their next Ligue 1 match against Le Havre. They want to have a strong start to the season against a team that battled relegation last time around. If the deal is done soon, Hrádecký might debut in the important Champions League qualifier, adding experience when Monaco needs it most.