AS Saint-Étienne, in great difficulty this season, is looking to strengthen itself this winter to secure its stay in Ligue 1. Currently ranked 16th, ASSE must strengthen in several sectors, particularly in attack. While Ben Old is injured, Augustine Boakye is struggling to establish himself and Mathieu Cafaro has not convinced, ASSE is turning to new targets. Targets capable of bringing speed and percussion to his offensive game. Among the players followed for several weeks by the Saint-Etienne recruitment unit, one name comes up repeatedly: Josué Casimir.
Josué Casimir, a 23-year-old right winger, plays for Le Havre AC, in Ligue 1. This Guadeloupean player, trained in mainland France, has established himself as one of the leaders of the Normandy team. His qualities of speed, percussion and his ability to bring depth to the attack correspond perfectly to the needs of ASSE. The Greens are looking to balance their offensive play, largely dominated by Zuriko Davitashvili, a player who plays mainly on the left side.
In 2023-2024, Casimir played 30 Ligue 1 matches, providing five assists. His consistent performances have made him a must-have player for his team. Despite an ankle injury at the end of November, Casimir should return to the field quickly, which would allow ASSE to integrate him into its ranks quickly in the event of a signing.
Le Havre in a difficult position
Le Havre AC finds itself in a delicate situation. Closely monitored by the DNCG due to financial problems, the Norman club is seriously lacking in liquidity and will probably have to sell some of its players to balance its accounts. In this context, although the HAC is not in a position to want to strengthen a direct competitor, it could be forced to sell Josué Casimir at a very reasonable price. In addition, his contract expires in June 2025, which could encourage the club to sell this winter, in order to avoid a loss of money in the event of a free departure at the end of the season.
ASSE has a strong advantage
ASSE seems to have an important advantage in this negotiation. Josué Casimir is represented by Djibril Niang, the historical agent of William Saliba, a well-known figure among Saint-Etienne leaders. This long-standing relationship could facilitate discussions and give ASSE a head start over its competitors. In addition, ASSE, which has the means to strengthen itself this winter, could offer an interesting offer which would make it possible to meet immediate needs while preparing for the future.
A solution for the ASSE attack
Without being cut out for Europe, the arrival of Casimir at ASSE would represent reinforcement for the Greens' attack. His fast, dynamic profile capable of playing across the entire width of the pitch would add a new dimension to the team's play. While ASSE seeks to move up the rankings and ensure its maintenance, Josué Casimir could well make the difference in this crucial second half of the season. He knows Ligue 1 and would be quickly operational.
ASSE must now act quickly to secure the services of Casimir before other clubs follow his lead. A transfer in January could well be one of the elements to revive the Greens in Ligue 1.
Identity card of Josué Casimir
Full name: Joshua Casimir
Date of birth : September 24, 2001 (23 years old)
Place of birth : Baie-Mahault, Guadeloupe
Nationality : Guadeloupean
Size : 1,78 m
Position : Right winger
Favorite foot: Right
Current club: Le Havre AC
Contract until: June 2025
