Dylan Batubinsika may be on the verge of a new chapter in his career, with Greek giants Panathinaikos showing serious interest in acquiring the Congolese defender following AS Saint-Étienne’s relegation to Ligue 2.
The 28-year-old centre-back, who came through the youth system at Paris Saint-Germain, faces an uncertain future after a disappointing season for Les Verts.
With Saint-Étienne dropping out of France’s top flight, Batubinsika is among several senior players expected to explore options elsewhere during the summer transfer window.
According to reports from Africafoot, Panathinaikos have already initiated contact with the player’s representatives as they look to bolster their defensive ranks.
The Athens-based club, keen to reinforce their backline ahead of the new season, view Batubinsika as an experienced and dependable addition capable of making an immediate impact.
While talks are still in the early stages, sources suggest negotiations could gather pace in the coming weeks. Panathinaikos, who finished near the top of the Greek Super League and are likely to compete in European qualifiers, are building a squad with continental ambitions.
Batubinsika’s profile — physical, tactically disciplined, and with experience in multiple leagues — fits the mould of what the club is seeking.
For Batubinsika, a potential move to Greece presents an opportunity to re-establish himself at the top level. The defender has played across several European leagues, including Portugal and Belgium, and has amassed valuable experience since leaving PSG’s youth setup.
Despite Saint-Étienne’s struggles this past season, he remained one of their more consistent performers at the heart of defence.
Batubinsika’s international pedigree also adds to his appeal. As a regular member of the DR Congo national team, he brings a level of maturity and leadership that Panathinaikos could benefit from, particularly in high-pressure matches domestically and in Europe.
His career path has been marked by resilience and adaptability. After limited opportunities at PSG, he moved to Benfica’s B team before establishing himself at Royal Antwerp in Belgium and then Maccabi Haifa in Israel, where he enjoyed European competition.
A return to France with Saint-Étienne was intended to offer stability, but the club’s ongoing struggles have instead left the door open for a new opportunity abroad.
Panathinaikos, known for their passionate fan base and competitive spirit, could be the ideal environment for Batubinsika to rediscover his best form.
The Greek club’s interest also highlights a growing trend of clubs in smaller European leagues investing in experienced talent to boost their European aspirations.
While nothing has been finalised, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether a deal materialises. Should Panathinaikos proceed with a formal offer, Saint-Étienne are unlikely to stand in Batubinsika’s way, particularly as they look to reshape their squad for life in Ligue 2.
For now, the Congolese defender’s future remains undecided — but a move to Athens could provide both a personal revival and a chance to compete on a bigger stage once again.
