While AS Saint-Étienne (ASSE) has shown a better appearance on the pitch in recent weeks, the club has been working behind the scenes to adjust a squad that still has room for improvement. If the return of Irvin Cardona is expected, the Sadibou Sané file which is attracting attention. The young defender could represent a reinforcement for the Greens. But the operation promises to be delicate.
Sadibou Sané, a talent in the spotlight
Sadibou Sané, 20-year-old central defender, is one of the great revelations of recent months. After starting in Ligue 1 with FC Metz on September 3, 2023 against Clermont, the young player has continued to confirm his potential. With 16 appearances in 2024, he has established himself as a pillar in the making of Senegalese football.
Aligned against ASSE during the play-offs at the end of last season, he demonstrated the full extent of his qualities despite the relegation of Metz to Ligue 2. Under contract with the Grenats until 2028, Sané is estimated at only 1 .5 million euros. However, it will take much more to convince the Metz club to part with this very promising player.
A door closed by Metz, except…
Questioned on the subject at a press conference after PSG – ASSE, Eirik Horneland, coach of ASSE, kicked in. If he did not confirm the information, the Norwegian technician suggested that adjustments are underway:
“There will certainly be adjustments to this transfer window. I focus on the players I have at my disposal. So it was a long answer that doesn't answer you (laughs). »
For its part, the Senegalese media Match 360 revealed that ASSE had clearly shown its interest in Sadibou Sané. We can confirm that the discussions are proven and date back several weeks. However, there is nothing to confirm that they will succeed. Bernard Serin, president of FC Metz, was categorical: “Sadibou Sané? He is a player who attracts a lot of attention. But he won't leave this winter. » The Lorraine leader was inflexible regarding the future of his central defender. The former resident of Génération Foot will end the season in the garnet jersey. Unless, according to the established expression, an offer that cannot be refused falls on the desk of President Metz…
A market pending at the ASSE
With three weeks left to act, ASSE is multiplying avenues to strengthen a workforce in search of stability. If Cardona's return is on track, the Sané file appears very complicated. The player is tempted by the opportunity to join ASSE, but remains under contract until 2028. The next few days will be decisive in knowing whether the Greens will manage to convince Metz to sell their young talent, or if they will have to turn towards other targets. Another central defender is being studied in parallel. The Saint-Etienne leaders intend to strengthen their defense.
