AC Milan’s Fodé Ballo-Touré appears poised to depart the San Siro this summer, with the Senegalese defender attracting interest from a French Ligue 2 club. Having been sidelined from Milan’s pre-season plans and relegated to the B team, the 27-year-old is actively seeking a new challenge.
Despite initial talks with Turkish giants Besiktas earlier in the summer, negotiations failed to materialize into a transfer.
Now, Ballo-Touré’s attention has turned to France, where AS Saint-Étienne has emerged as a serious contender for his signature.
The Stéphanois have reportedly made an initial offer, signaling their intent to secure the services of the left-back.
The potential move to Saint-Étienne marks a significant moment for Ballo-Touré, who has struggled to find his footing since his arrival at AC Milan in 2021.
After joining the Italian side with high expectations, the Senegalese international has failed to make a lasting impact, featuring in just 26 matches over three years.
His appearances in Serie A have been particularly limited, with the defender unable to surpass 10 league outings in any single season.
Ballo-Touré’s lack of playing time and underwhelming performances have contributed to a steady decline in his market value.
Once valued at €5.4 million, the defender’s worth has plummeted to €3 million.
This decline reflects the challenges he has faced in adapting to the demands of top-flight football in Italy.
Last season, Ballo-Touré was loaned to Premier League side Fulham in a bid to rejuvenate his career.
However, his stint in England was far from successful, as he managed to make only eight appearances for the Cottagers.
The limited game time and lack of impact failed to convince Fulham to pursue a permanent deal, leaving the Senegalese player in limbo upon his return to Milan.
The upcoming transfer window presents a crucial opportunity for Ballo-Touré to reignite his career and prove his worth on the pitch.
AS Saint-Étienne’s interest offers a glimmer of hope for the defender, who is undoubtedly eager to move on from his disappointing spell in Lombardy.
However, the success of this potential transfer hinges on the French club’s ability to meet Milan’s demands and the player’s willingness to take a step down to Ligue 2.
Ballo-Touré’s contract with AC Milan still has a year remaining, but it is clear that his future lies away from the Rossoneri.
As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether the Senegalese international can finally secure a move that will allow him to rediscover his form and revive his career.
The coming days will be pivotal for Ballo-Touré, as negotiations between Milan and Saint-Étienne continue.
The defender’s next move could prove to be a defining moment in his career, offering him a fresh start and the chance to fulfill the potential that once made him a sought-after talent in European football.
