AS Saint-Étienne (ASSE) is about to strengthen its workforce for next season, after its return to Ligue 2. The club, supported by Kilmer Sports, is aiming for a quick recovery in Ligue 1 and foresees substantial investments, as evidenced by the recent recruitment of Irvin Cardona and Maxime Bernauer, as well as the arrival of Chico Lamba, a young Portuguese international. These acquisitions, estimated at nearly €8 million, demonstrate the desire to build a strong team to evolve into the second division. However, the club also anticipates departures, notably from Lucas Staasins and Zuriko Davitashvili, who do not seem willing to stay in Ligue 2 and attract the interest of more hopped clubs.
The ASSE’s desire to retain Lucas Staassin, a talented young attacker and top scorer in League 2, is a major challenge. The player draws the attention of leading European clubs who hope to recruit him for the 2026 World Cup. Despite its remarkable efficiency, with 12 goals this season and a goal ratio above its expectations, Staassin could be hard to remember. Its calmness in front of the goal and its sense of placement testify to a rare maturity for his age.
In parallel with these movements, other departures are envisaged, notably that of Dylan Batubinsika, and Ibrihim Sissoko and Pierre Cornud who have already left the club. These transfers would free up financial and space resources to support the team’s ambitions. ASSE, aware of the importance of a solid foundation, continues its recruitment and renewal strategy to ensure its success in Ligue 2 and, eventually, its return to the elite of French football.