The Paris FC, initially very interested in Lucas Staassin, attacking the AS Saint-Étienne, now seems to direct its efforts towards another player: Willem Geubbels. Staassin, the best scorer of the Greens last season, had aroused the interest of several French clubs, his young and experienced profile in Ligue 1 corresponding to the needs of the promoted. However, the Paris FC turned to Geubbels, a 23-year-old French striker in the midst of a renaissance in Switzerland, where he achieved an impressive season and a promising start to the 2025-2026 season. The negotiations for his arrival in Paris FC would be around 10 million euros, which would represent the biggest sale in the history of Saint-Gall. For Staassin, this turnaround in Paris FC changes the situation, reducing its prospects for immediate departure, although other clubs can still manifest themselves.

At the same time, AS Saint-Étienne continues its policy of renewing its workforce, with Ayman Aiki’s final departure to the SC Bastia. Trained at the Stéphanois training centre, the 20-year-old, French international winger U19 signed a contract with the Corsican club after being loaned to Bastia. His departure, although regretted by ASSE, is part of a desire to value the talents trained in the club and to enable him to gain experience in Ligue 2. This decision is seen as positive for the Stéphanois team, which keeps a potential player for the coming season.

AS Saint-Étienne coach Eirik Horneland spoke before the Ligue 2 match against Rodez, highlighting the quality of the experienced players and the importance of team cohesion. He also highlighted the potential of young players like Stojkovic and Traoré, both from the Academy and from outside, who he wants to develop over the coming months. Horneland insisted on building a strong and talented team, building on the young talents and experience of the players already present. The objective is to strengthen the defence and improve the offensive performance of the team.