The summer transfer window is entering its final stretch, and rumors are heating up around Ligue 1. While some deals appear to be gaining traction, others are closing or drifting away. Here’s a roundup of the most anticipated moves, amid offensives, hesitations, and uncertainties.
Marseille Makes a Move for Saël Kumbedi
Olympique de Marseille is looking to strengthen its defensive line and has reportedly set its sights on young right-back Saël Kumbedi. According to insider Mohamed Toubache-Ter, as reported by Foot-sur7, an initial offer has been submitted for the 21-year-old Frenchman. With competition from several European clubs in this race, OM hopes to seal the deal quickly. Kumbedi’s profile fits the needs of the Phocéens, who are aiming to reinforce their right flank for the long term. The player remains in high demand, and the ball is now in the selling club’s court.Saint-Étienne: Possible Departures and Uncertainty
AS Saint-Étienne is experiencing a turbulent transfer window. Striker Lucas Stassin, a 21-year-old Belgian international, has attracted interest from Racing Club de Strasbourg and Benfica Lisbon, according to RMC Sport and Football.fr. Talks are underway, but nothing is finalized, and several options remain open for Stassin. Meanwhile, another key player for Les Verts, Kévin Pedro, is reportedly being targeted by a Premier League club and a Ligue 1 side, according to Peuple Vert. Coach Ian Cathro has not ruled out bringing in a defensive reinforcement, especially if the squad is trimmed, as reported by But! Football Club.On the arrivals front, the trail leading to Pablo Garcia (Betis) was explored to bolster Saint-Étienne’s attack, but the 20-year-old Spanish winger now looks set to join Hull City in England. Despite interest from several Ligue 1 clubs, including AS Saint-Étienne, none have made a concrete offer (Foot-sur7, But! Football Club). ASSE will therefore have to look at other targets.
Nantes and the Youth Strategy
FC Nantes continues to invest in the future. The Canaries are set to sign Moulouk Touré, a 19-year-old central defender from Thonon Évian, according to But! Football Club. He will initially join the reserve squad, with a view to gradually integrating into the first team. The club remains committed to its post-academy development policy, relying on patience to bring its young talents into the senior side.To Watch
The Ligue 1 transfer market remains wide open for surprises as the deadline approaches. The Kumbedi deal at OM and Stassin at ASSE are ones to watch closely, as are any last-minute moves from clubs seeking reinforcements or financial relief. The coming hours could bring plenty of twists, with negotiations intense and positions shifting rapidly across France.