MONTPELLIER, France — Striker Andy Delort is set to return to Montpellier to assist the French club in its battle against relegation.

Delort, hailing from Sete, a port city nearby, had previously played for Montpellier between 2018 and 2021. On Wednesday, the club announced that he would be rejoining them on a loan deal from Moloudia d’Alger, with an option for the club to buy.

His return comes as a direct replacement for Akor Adams, who made the move to Sevilla in Spain’s La Liga.

During his three-year tenure at Montpellier, Delort amassed a total of 106 appearances in all competitions, netting 47 goals and providing 21 assists. This season, Montpellier has faced ongoing struggles—in addition to having the league’s poorest defensive statistics, their offensive output has also faltered significantly. The club is hoping that Delort can replicate his previous success and boost their performance.

Even with recent signs of improvement, Montpellier currently finds itself in the relegation zone, having conceded 44 goals in just 19 matches, coinciding with the club’s 50th anniversary season.

“It’s a challenging task, but together with this club, we can achieve it,” Delort stated, who also represents Algeria on the international stage. “I’m not here to be the savior, but I will commit fully to ensure we finish the season on a high note.”

Montpellier’s historical achievements include their sole French league title, won in 2012 when they surprisingly triumphed over Paris Saint-Germain. The club also secured the second division title in 1987 and lifted the French Cup in 1990, boasting a roster that featured legends like Eric Cantona, Laurent Blanc, and Julio Cesar.

However, Montpellier’s aspirations this season have suffered due to a notable decline in television rights revenue, which has left them unable to bring in the reinforcements they initially sought.