Tunisian teenager Elyes Dhaoui joins Saint-Etienne on deal until 2029

Saint-Etienne have signed 18-year-old Tunisian midfielder Elyes Dhaoui from Olympique de Béja on a contract running until 2029.

The French club have brought in the teenager as a player for the future after he established himself in Tunisia’s top flight despite his young age.

Dhaoui joined Olympique de Béja’s youth system when he was 12 and progressed through the club’s ranks before making his first-division debut at the age of 16.

He has since made 32 appearances in the Tunisian top flight, gaining valuable senior experience well before reaching his 19th birthday.

His development has also included a significant international career at youth level. Dhaoui has represented Tunisia at several major tournaments, including a U17 World Cup and two Africa Cup of Nations competitions at U17 and U20 level.

The midfielder has also been entrusted with leadership responsibilities during his time with Tunisia’s youth teams, wearing the captain’s armband on several occasions.

Saint-Etienne believe his experience at both domestic and international youth level provides a strong foundation for his next stage of development.

Loïc Perrin described the new signing as a “defensive midfielder with top-level experience,” although Dhaoui will initially begin his time at the French club with the reserve team.

The decision is intended to give the teenager an opportunity to continue his development while adapting to his new surroundings and taking another step in his career.

Saint-Etienne’s manager has made it clear that Dhaoui must have the desire to progress quickly rather than simply settle for his current level.

“He needs to have the ambition to aim higher.”

Dhaoui’s move to France represents the latest stage of a rapid rise that began at Olympique de Béja when he was only 12.

After breaking into senior football at 16 and gaining experience in Tunisia’s first division, he will now continue his development in the Saint-Etienne setup.

The midfielder’s contract keeps him at the club until 2029, giving Saint-Etienne a long-term commitment to a player they see as having the potential to progress further.

For Dhaoui, the immediate challenge will be to make an impression with the reserve side and demonstrate that he is ready for the next step in his development.