Stade de Reims secure permanent signing of Samuel Kotto after loan success

Stade de Reims have confirmed the permanent signing of Cameroonian defender Samuel Kotto following an impressive loan spell, with the club activating the purchase option included in his initial agreement.

The central defender, who joined on loan during the winter transfer window from KAA Gent, quickly established himself as a reliable presence in the squad. His consistent performances convinced the French club’s hierarchy to secure his services on a long-term basis.

Kotto is now tied to Stade de Reims until June 2030, underlining the club’s confidence in his development and his role within their future sporting plans.

The Cameroonian international, who was developed at Tad Sport, is currently valued at around €3 million. During the ongoing campaign, he has made 15 appearances in Ligue 2, gradually becoming an important figure in the team’s defensive structure.

Following the confirmation of his permanent transfer, Kotto expressed his satisfaction at continuing his career in France and thanked those who supported his move.

“I’m really happy to continue this adventure here. I sincerely want to thank the club, the president, and the staff for the confidence they’ve placed in me. I’ll do everything I can to justify that confidence in this jersey.”

Reflecting on his initial months at the club, he highlighted the value of his loan experience and the opportunity to integrate into the team environment.

“These first six months have been very enriching. I’ve had the opportunity to play in every match, to immerse myself in the club’s culture and to understand what Reims represents in French football.”

Despite disappointment at the club’s failure to secure promotion to Ligue 1, Kotto stressed his determination to contribute to future success and improve further as a player.

“We didn’t achieve our objective at the end of the season. It’s a disappointment I share with the whole team. But it only strengthens my resolve for next season.

My goal is simple: to help bring this club back to Ligue 1, while continuing to improve. I want to be an important part of the team, both on and off the pitch, to help us achieve promotion.”

The decision to secure Kotto on a long-term contract reflects Reims’ commitment to building a stable squad as they aim to return to the top tier of French football in the coming seasons.