Saint-Étienne set to sign Algeria U20 defender Oussama Benkou

AS Saint-Étienne are preparing to complete the arrival of Algerian U20 international Oussama Benkou, with the 17-year-old defender set to join the club’s reserve side on loan from Olympique Akbou until the end of the season.

The Ligue 2 club have opted to strengthen their youth structure outside the main transfer window, securing a deal that includes an option to buy.

Benkou, who can operate as a central defender or on the left side, is viewed as a player whose profile aligns with the club’s development strategy.

Saint-Étienne’s winter activity was relatively measured, highlighted by the arrivals of Abdoulaye Kanté, Aboubaka Soumahoro and Marten-Chris Paalberg.

The recruitment of Benkou reflects a continued focus on post-training development and long-term squad planning rather than immediate first-team reinforcements.

The move is also linked to the club’s existing connections with Algerian football. Razik Nedder, appointed coach of Algeria’s U20 side in 2025 after several years overseeing Saint-Étienne’s academy and reserve teams, is credited with promoting Benkou at international level.

The young defender has already stepped up an age category and earned U20 recognition despite his age.

However, his arrival in the Loire region has been delayed. Although the transfer agreement was finalised weeks ago, administrative procedures remain incomplete, with the player awaiting a visa to travel to France.

Club officials have indicated that such delays are common in transfers involving non-European players and have expressed no concern about the situation.

Once cleared, Benkou is expected to reinforce the reserve team’s defensive options after recent squad movements disrupted balance at the back.

His left-footed profile, comfort on the ball and positional flexibility are regarded as assets as Saint-Étienne, currently second in Ligue 2, continue to build for the future.