The AS Saint-Étienne is about to welcome Joshua Duffus, an addition that should not impact Lucas Staasinn’s transfer file, the key Belgian attacker of the club. Staasinn, linked to ASSE until 2028, is actively courted by several European clubs after an exceptional season marked by 12 goals and 4 assists. His profile as a modern pre-centre, combining offensive efficiency and the ability to play teammates, arouses the interest of many formations, but Staasinn’s future remains uncertain, oscillating between ASSE’s sporting ambitions and its own career aspirations. The financial requirements of the Stéphanois club have cooled several suitors, leaving mainly the Paris FC with the potential financial capacity for a concrete offer.

In parallel to this contractual situation, Lucas Staasinn is going through a period of convalescence following a one-foot surgery, having removed him from the field during the end of last season. Despite the rumours of transfer fuelled by this injury, his entourage insists on the priority given to his rehabilitation and a gradual return to competition. Staasinn, aware of the confidence given by ASSE, does not wish to enter into a conflict with the club, while aspireing to meet a new professional challenge. He hopes to participate in the North American World Cup and is actively working to regain his best level, with a possible recovery in the first championship match against Laval.

The ASSE, aware of Staasinn’s value for the coming season and the negative impact of a possible start on the balance of the workforce, maintains a firm position. The club would only give up its Belgian attacker for a “demonstrated” offer. The arrival of Joshua Duffus is presented as independent of Staasinn’s future, with ASSE counting on him for the 2025-2026 season. The Staasinn dossier therefore seems destined to stretch, with a resolution possible in August, raising the concern of the Stéphanois supporters who want to take advantage of his talent for a few more seasons.