Despite their relegation last season, AS Saint-Étienne aims to retain its key players. While dropping to Ligue 2 is a setback, the club harbors long-term ambitions, supported by significant investments from its affluent Canadian owners, Kilmer Sports Ventures.
Specifically, the club hopes to retain Zuriko Davitashvili (24) and Lucas Stassin (20), both acquired for substantial fees last summer, who performed impressively in Ligue 1. However, Davitashvili is unwilling to play in Ligue 2 next season. Despite the determination of `Les Verts` (the club`s nickname) to keep him, the Georgian international is reportedly growing increasingly frustrated with the club`s stance.
Davitashvili has attracted significant interest from numerous clubs. Stade Rennais, RC Strasbourg Alsace, Sevilla, Borussia Mönchengladbach, and English Premier League side Everton are closely monitoring the forward`s situation, which could still evolve before the transfer window closes.