Hoarau Linked with Saint-Étienne Move Amid Transfer Conditions
Guillaume Hoarau is edging closer to a potential return to top-flight football with AS Saint-Étienne, but the move hinges on a key departure from the club.
The 30-year-old striker, who recently saw his contract with Bordeaux come to an end, is currently a free agent. As reported by Africa Top Sports, Hoarau is in advanced talks with Saint-Étienne, as the Ligue 1 side looks to bolster its attacking options ahead of the new season.
However, according to Footmercato, Saint-Étienne’s interest in the former Paris Saint-Germain forward is conditional. The club must first part ways with Brazilian striker Brandão before making room—financially and tactically—for Hoarau’s arrival.
Brandão, 34, has been a regular presence in Saint-Étienne’s frontline in recent seasons, known for his physical presence and big-match contributions. But with the club aiming to refresh its squad and manage wage commitments, his departure appears to be a necessary step before any new signings can be finalised.
Hoarau, who returned to French football in 2014 after a stint abroad, featured 16 times in Ligue 1 for Bordeaux last season, scoring three goals. While his output was modest, his experience and aerial strength remain valued assets, particularly for a side like Saint-Étienne that often relies on direct play and physicality in attack.
A seasoned campaigner, Hoarau first rose to prominence with Paris Saint-Germain, where he enjoyed several successful seasons between 2008 and 2013. He later spent time with Chinese outfit Dalian Aerbin and Swiss side BSC Young Boys before returning to Ligue 1 with Bordeaux.
Saint-Étienne’s interest suggests they still see untapped value in the tall striker, who could bring depth and experience to a squad aiming to compete for European qualification once again. However, the club’s financial prudence means any new additions must be carefully managed.
As things stand, the ball is in Saint-Étienne’s court: should they succeed in moving Brandão on, Guillaume Hoarau could soon be donning the green jersey at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.
