AS Saint-Étienne hoped to strike a big blow by attracting Baptiste Santamaria, midfielder from Stade Rennais, but the file now seems to be moving away. According to Progressthe 29-year-old player would favor a new experience abroad, cooling the ambitions of the Saint-Etienne leaders for this winter transfer window.
An agreement announced, but denied by the player's entourage
On Monday, sources close to the club spoke of an imminent agreement between Rennes and ASSE for the transfer of Santamaria, a strategic reinforcement for a position where experience is sorely lacking. However, the player's entourage quickly denied these contacts, affirming that no serious discussions had been started with the Greens. This about-face complicates the plans of the club, which was counting on this recruitment to start its transfer window under good auspices.
A priority abroad for Santamaria
After a notable stint in the Bundesliga with Friborg in 2020-2021, Baptiste Santamaria seems keen to try his luck again outside France. His profile, appreciated for his tactical rigor and his versatility, could attract European championship clubs where his experience in Ligue 1 and the continental scene represents an asset.
For Saint-Étienne, this situation is a hard blow. With a still precarious position in Ligue 2, the Greens had identified Santamaria as the ideal solution to solidify their midfield. The club will now have to turn to other targets to strengthen its squad and hope to turn things around in the second half of the season.
Supporter of En Avant de Guingamp, the best of the Breton clubs, I prefer to meet Yannis Salibur, Cristophe Kerbrat or Jeremy Sorbon rather than Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi or Sergio Ramos.
