Although ASSE has not yet registered any new recruits, a first reinforcement could materialize very soon. Irvin Cardona seems closer than ever to a return to Forez, although the file drags on.
If there is one thing that is capturing all the attention this winter, it is that of the possible return of Irvin Cardona to Saint-Étienne. The former Stéphanois could become a Greens player again in the coming days. The player has never hidden his desire to return to Forez. If the leaders had not followed up on this file last summer, they decided to reopen it at the request of the new coach, Eirik Horneland.
Cardona yes, but not without counting
However, Huss Fahmy, in charge of negotiations, remains cautious about the expenses to be incurred for this transfer. Many players are involved, making the transaction particularly complex.
Initially, an agreement was to be reached with Espanyol Barcelona, where Cardona was on loan. The Catalan club wanted to recruit a replacement and obtain financial compensation, according to L'Équipe. With the arrival of a new striker, Espanyol accepted Irvin Cardona's formal request to end his loan. Unsurprisingly, the player was not selected for the match against Valladolid last Friday. While his teammates won a decisive match on Friday, Cardona prepared his things before returning to France.
-ASSE still optimistic
However, ASSE has yet to finalize an agreement with Augsburg, the club with whom Cardona remains under contract until June 2027. Negotiations continue, as Cardona wants a lasting commitment with the Greens rather than just a six-month loan . The amount of the purchase option remains the main sticking point.
Despite the slowness of the discussions, a rapid outcome is expected. The player is ready and waiting for a definitive green light. ASSE will have to confirm its return before Wednesday evening so that it can be lined up against Auxerre this Friday. The timer is started.
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