ASSE: six new recruits in the sights!

Saturday evening, ASSE won a valuable victory by winning 3-1 against Stade de Reims. This success, the first under the leadership of Norwegian coach Eirik Horneland, allows the Greens to move up to 14th place in the Ligue 2 standings, three points ahead of the play-off team.

But this first step in the fight for maintenance is not enough. Aware of the flaws in its squad, Saint-Étienne is working behind the scenes to attract reinforcements this winter. With limited resources, the club is targeting players capable of filling its gaps while quickly integrating into the collective.

Santamaria, Nordin and Ayessa in the viewfinder

The priority of the Stéphanois this winter is the defensive midfielder of Rennes, Baptiste Santamaria. Little used in Brittany this season, he could join Forez in the form of loan with option to purchase. The player, who has solid experience in Ligue 1, would be a strong recruit to strengthen the midfield.

Arnaud Nordin, formerly of the Green House and now in Montpellier, is also targeted. At the end of the contract in June, the player will not extend with the MHSC. The Hérault club could therefore accept a reasonable offer, estimated at around 5 million euros. Capable of playing in several offensive positions, Nordin would be a valuable asset for Horneland.

In defense, the Greens made contact with Jesah Ayessa, AC Ajaccio player. Physically strong, the 25-year-old defender could bring stability to a sometimes crumbly rearguard. Under contract until 2030, Ayessa could be recruited for an affordable amount.

Desserts and Nordic trails

The attack is not forgotten, with a renowned target: Cyriel Dessers, from Glasgow Rangers. The Nigerian center forward scored points on his Scotland debut, but an opportunity could present itself if the Stéphanois free up payroll.

Furthermore, Erik Horneland could use his Norwegian connections to attract Marius Broholm, a promising young midfielder from Rosenborg. At only 19 years old, Broholm embodies the future and could be recruited on loan. Finally, a track leads to Matteo Dams, a 25-year-old left back playing in Qatar. The latter, with solid experience in Europe, could offer a reliable alternative to a position in difficulty.

A race against time for ASSE

With these six players in their sights, ASSE hopes to strengthen its squad quickly. Despite the victory against Reims, the club knows that the fight to maintain will be tough until the end of the season.

The next few weeks will be decisive for the Greens, who must not only convince these potential recruits, but also find a financial balance to complete these files. If these arrivals materialize, they could well give Saint-Étienne the breathing space necessary to avoid relegation.