AS Saint‑Étienne are preparing to field offers for French‑born Ivorian centre‑back Mickaël Nadé, amid growing interest from clubs in England’s Championship and Italy’s Serie A.
The 26‑year‑old defender, a Sarcelles native who came through Saint‑Étienne’s celebrated academy, has featured prominently for the club despite their relegation to Ligue 2.
Over the past campaign, Nadé made 26 league appearances, scored a goal, and delivered three assists – performances that have piqued the interest of a number of suitors.
Among the clubs monitoring his situation are FC Nantes, Dynamo Kyiv, and Blackburn Rovers. More recently, two unnamed English Championship sides have joined the chase, attracted by his left‑footed defensive play and consistent top‑flight experience. Meanwhile, Serie A outfit Hellas Verona have emerged as serious contenders for his signature.
Saint‑Étienne’s hierarchy have yet to refuse outright talks but are conscious of Nadé’s importance to their rebuild efforts. With three years still remaining on his contract — which runs until June 2028 following a renewal last summer — the club are in a strong negotiating position.
Transfermarkt currently values the defender at around €2 million, though Saint‑Étienne are expected to demand a fee closer to €3 million to reflect his influence and the length of his deal.
Reports suggest that Championship sides such as West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield Wednesday have already expressed formal interest, with one purported offer declined in favour of fresh contract negotiations.
It’s clear that Nadé desires to progress in his career, even as Saint‑Étienne weigh up whether to keep him as a cornerstone for their push to return to Ligue 1.
In Italy, Hellas Verona have also entered the picture, seeking to bolster their defensive options ahead of the new season. However, the financial terms set by Saint‑Étienne present a challenge.
Verona will need to not only meet the club’s valuation but also persuade Nadé of the benefits of relocating to Serie A. At the same time, the player’s international prospects with Ivory Coast could be influenced by where he chooses to ply his trade.
As the summer window progresses, negotiations are set to intensify. Championship clubs face the task of convincing Saint‑Étienne that a move makes financial sense, while Verona must deliver a competitive package.
For Saint‑Étienne, the choice rests on balancing the immediate injection of transfer income against retaining a key defensive talent capable of leading their promotion bid.
Nadé’s profile is one of a modern, ball‑playing centre‑back – adept in aerial duels and composed with distribution. His ability to contribute offensively, as shown by his goal and three assists, further enhances his appeal.
For interested parties, this versatile skill set represents value, particularly for clubs aiming to solidify their back line with a left‑footed player capable of initiating play from deep positions.
Ultimately, Mickaël Nadé’s destination may hinge on which offers materialise and align with his ambitions. A move to England could test his physical resilience in the demanding Championship, while a switch to Italy promises exposure in a tactically higher tier. He remains contracted to Saint‑Étienne until 2028, giving the Ligue 2 side the upper hand in negotiations.
In conclusion, Nadé stands at an important crossroads. With interest mounting from across leagues, a decision on whether to remain at Saint‑Étienne or take his talents abroad looms.
Whichever path he chooses will likely shape not only the centre‑back’s career trajectory but also the futures of the clubs involved.
