Thierno Balde swaps Troyes for AS Nancy in free transfer

French-Guinean defender Thierno Balde has joined AS Nancy on a free transfer from Troyes, giving the Ligue 2 club a new right-back for the 2026-27 season.

The 24-year-old has signed a contract with Nancy running until 30 June 2028 after ending his time with Troyes. Balde, who is right-footed, plays primarily at right-back and stands 1.82m tall.

Balde arrives with experience in both of France’s top two divisions. He has made 44 Ligue 2 appearances and 31 in Ligue 1 during his senior career, recording two assists in the top flight.

His move to Nancy follows four seasons at Troyes, whom he joined from Paris St-Germain in August 2022. The transfer from PSG to Troyes was completed for €3m, and Balde went on to establish himself in French professional football.

Before joining Troyes, Balde spent time with Le Havre on loan from PSG during the 2021-22 campaign. He returned to the Paris club at the end of that season before making the move to Troyes.

Balde began his development in the PSG system after joining from US Senart-Moissy in 2016. He progressed through the club’s youth teams, moving from the under-17 side to the under-19s before entering senior football.

The defender also has a dual French and Guinean background and was born in Villeneuve-Saint-Georges. His arrival links Nancy with a player whose career has included Ligue 1, Ligue 2 and the development structures of one of France’s leading clubs.

Nancy have completed the move as part of their preparations for the new season, with Balde now registered as an AS Nancy player. He will wear the club’s number 19 shirt.

Balde’s contract with AS Nancy is valid until 30 June 2028.