AJ Auxerre eyes Islam Slimani as potential summer signing
Islam Slimani, the esteemed Algerian striker known for his prolific career across Europe, is attracting interest from AJ Auxerre, newly promoted to Ligue 1, as he nears the end of his contract with KV Malines in Belgium.
At 36 years old, Slimani holds a revered status in Algerian football, boasting an impressive record of 46 goals in 102 appearances for the national team.
His career has spanned prestigious clubs including Sporting Portugal and Leicester City in the Premier League.
Notably, stints at AS Monaco and Olympique Lyonnais underscore his enduring impact in French football, despite mixed results such as a challenging season with Brest in 2022-2023.
According to journalist Hamza Gacioui, AJ Auxerre is keen on securing Slimani’s services as they prepare for their return to the French top-flight.
The Burgundian club, already active in the transfer market with the signing of Ivory Coast’s Lasso Coulibaly, sees Slimani as a potential addition to bolster their attacking options.
With his contract set to expire on June 30, Slimani will soon be free to negotiate a move to his next destination.
Currently with KV Malines in the Jupiler Pro League, Slimani’s recent spell in Belgium saw him tally three goals in thirteen appearances.
Should negotiations progress positively, AJ Auxerre could mark Slimani’s 14th club in a distinguished career marked by adaptability and goal-scoring prowess.
In addition to Slimani, AJ Auxerre is also eyeing another Algerian international, right-back Kevin Guitoun, who previously featured for Metz.
Guitoun, 28, faces interest from RC Lens as well, with his future potentially aligned with AJ Auxerre as they seek reinforcements ahead of the upcoming season.
Under contract with Metz until June 2026, Guitoun’s decision could hinge on securing the best offer that aligns with his ambitions to compete at the highest level of French football.
As the summer transfer window unfolds, AJ Auxerre remains proactive in its pursuit of experienced players like Slimani and promising talents such as Guitoun.
The club’s strategic moves aim not only to strengthen their squad but also to make a significant impact as they return to Ligue 1 competition, poised to challenge established teams with a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents.
