Grasshopper Club Zurich is on the verge of finalizing a deal to acquire Canadian international midfielder Mathieu Choinière from CF Montréal, sources have disclosed. The transfer fee for Choinière is estimated to be around $1 million, as per the sources. Choinière, 25, expressed his desire to leave CF Montréal earlier this year following failed contract negotiations.

The versatile midfielder, who has earned five caps for Canada and participated in the Copa América this summer, has played his entire professional career at Montréal, making a total of 139 appearances for his boyhood club. Noteworthy accolades include being named an MLS All-Star in 2023 and 2024. Choinière's move to Grasshopper presents him with the opportunity to further develop his skills in European football.

Grasshopper Club Zurich, currently positioned at the bottom of the Swiss league after four games, anticipates reinforcements such as Choinière to pivot their season in a positive direction. LAFC and Grasshopper established a "long-term strategic partnership" this year following the acquisition of a majority ownership share by the MLS club.

CF Montréal, currently occupying the 11th spot in the Eastern Conference and narrowly missing out on a playoff berth by a single point, has been active in the transfer market this summer. The club has welcomed additions such as Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, Dawid Bugaj, Tom Pearce, and Caden Clark.

Choinière's move follows a trend of Canadian players venturing into European football, with prominent figures like Alphonso Davies and Tajon Buchanan making notable moves in recent times. The rising trend has seen players like Ismael Kone securing a transfer to Olympique Marseille from Watford and Derek Cornelius moving to OGC Nice from Malmo FF.

Moise Bombito, a central defender for the Colorado Rapids, is set to join the list of Canadian internationals in Europe with a prospective move to French club OGC Nice following a solid performance for Canada in the 2024 Copa América.

The social media community has expressed varying opinions regarding Choinière's move, with discussions revolving around the financial aspects, the quality of the leagues, and the player's career progression. Fans and analysts are eager to witness how this transfer unfolds and its impact on the clubs involved.

**Social Media Comments on Choinière's Transfer:**
- "Curious what the salary is like, because the level is pretty lateral."
- "I just don’t see him making more than that at Grasshopper. We will see if this is a good move."
- "I don't mind this move for Choiniere. The Swiss League is a decent move IMO and Choniere can actually afford to live in Zurich which is a great city."
- "I know that him asking for a transfer reduces Montreal's bargaining position, but damn $1MM for Choiniere?? Would have loved for the Caps to be in on him."
- "Hey, that's us!"