Burkinabe defender Arsène Kouassi attracts interest from AS Saint-Étienne

AS Saint-Étienne are closely monitoring AC Ajaccio’s standout full-back Arsène Kouassi following an impressive campaign in Ligue 2 that has seen the 20-year-old Burkinabe emerge as one of the league’s most promising young defenders.

Kouassi, who is under contract with the Corsican side until June 2027, enjoyed a breakout season during the 2023–24 campaign, featuring in 23 league matches and registering three assists.

His consistent performances and attacking contributions from the left flank have made him a sought-after asset in the current transfer window.

According to sources cited by Transfer Radar, Saint-Étienne have added Kouassi to their list of potential summer signings. The club, recently promoted back to Ligue 1, is actively seeking to bolster its squad depth ahead of the upcoming season, with the left-back position considered a key area for reinforcement.

However, ASSE will face stiff competition for Kouassi’s signature. The defender has reportedly caught the attention of several other European clubs, including RC Lens, Brentford, Angers SCO, FC Lorient, FC Nantes, and Swiss outfit FC Sion. His growing profile has made him one of the most talked-about young players in the French second division.

Kouassi’s current market value is estimated at €1.5 million—a modest figure given his potential and contractual stability at Ajaccio. While Ajaccio may be reluctant to lose one of their brightest talents, the mounting interest from top-flight sides in France and abroad may soon force their hand.

A product of West African football development systems, Kouassi has risen quickly through the ranks. His adaptability, composure on the ball, and ability to contribute offensively make him a modern full-back in demand.

Though still only 20 years old, he has demonstrated tactical maturity and defensive discipline beyond his years, which has piqued the interest of recruitment departments across Europe.

Saint-Étienne’s reported interest aligns with their strategy of investing in young, high-potential players capable of developing under the club’s guidance.

The Ligue 1 returnees are eager to establish themselves once more in the top tier of French football, and targeting players like Kouassi signals a forward-looking recruitment approach.

While no formal offer has been confirmed, discussions are believed to be ongoing behind the scenes. The coming weeks could prove decisive as clubs jostle for position in the race to secure his services.

Kouassi has yet to make a public statement regarding his future, and for now, remains committed to AC Ajaccio. Nevertheless, with clubs circling and transfer activity intensifying, a move before the close of the summer window appears increasingly likely.

As speculation builds, all eyes will be on how Ajaccio handles the interest in one of their most valuable assets—and whether AS Saint-Étienne can fend off rival suitors to complete what would be a highly promising acquisition.

‼️EXCLU LIGUE 2 #ASSE ????

????Selon nos informations, Arsène Kouassi ???????? (AC Ajaccio) figure sur la short-list de Saint-Étienne concernant le poste de latéral gauche ????

➡️À cette heure, nous ne pouvons pas vous dire si le dossier est à un stade avancé ????#Mercato #Ligue2 pic.twitter.com/Z4UoYsiamr

— Transfert Radar (@TransfertRadar) July 15, 2025