Published on 10/12/2024 at 8:31 p.m.
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AS Saint-Étienne, in difficulty this season with a worrying 16th place in Ligue 1, plans to strengthen itself during the winter transfer window to reverse the trend. Faithful to their strategy focused on youth and potentialthe Saint-Etienne leaders would have set their sights on Abdoulaye Kantépromising 19-year-old Ivorian defensive midfielder playing atESTAC Troyes.
© ASSE official website
A precocious talent on the rise
Born in Attécoubé in Ivory Coast, Abdoulaye Kanté rose through the ranks of French football after being trained in FC Montfermeil. Arriving free at Troyes in 2022, he quickly established himself as a key element of the team with 13 matches played out of 15 possible this season in Ligue 2. His role as a defensive midfielder allowed him to demonstrate his endurance and tactical discipline, while delivering a decisive pass. Valued at 1.5 million euros according to Transfermarkt, Kanté is under contract until June 2026 but ASSE is in advanced negotiations for a loan with purchase option.
Filling a suffering sector
The Saint-Etienne midfielder has been weakened this season by the absences of important players like Aïmen Moueffek, Thomas Monconduit and Ben Old. The arrival of Kanté could bring the missing qualities to the team, with a high volume of play and real qualities with the ball. An ideal profile to protect the Greens’ defense.
A bet on the future
Beyond his immediate contribution, the recruitment of Kanté represents a long-term bet for ASSE. At only 19 years old, the young Ivorian midfielder has significant room for improvement. If he manages to adapt quickly to Ligue 1, he could not only contribute to maintaining, but also become a valuable asset for years to come.
