Mercato : Saint-Étienne Slaps a $54 Million Price Tag to Block Stassin's Move

While the French transfer window has just closed, the Lucas Stassin saga was one of its most surprising final acts. Despite strong interest from Paris FC and the player's own desire to leave, the 20 year old Belgian striker will ultimately remain with AS Saint-Étienne.

The club's leadership, owned by Canadian fund Kilmer Sports Ventures (KSV), flatly rejected Paris's advances by demanding a prohibitive fee. According to consistent reports from multiple media outlets, Saint-Étienne asked for no less than $45 million, plus an additional $7.5 million in potential add ons, bringing the total package to a staggering $54 million.

This stance is a radical departure from the player's market valuation, which Transfermarkt estimates at roughly $19 million, and it quickly cooled Paris FC's interest. Le Parisien reports their final offer was significantly lower, believed to be in the region of $21 million plus bonuses.

Journalist Sacha Tavolieri, who was closely following the negotiations, confirmed the blockage came from the Saint-Étienne ownership, stating, "The club changed, significantly raised, and unexpectedly increased its financial demands at the last minute." This hardball strategy was made possible by the player's comfortable contract, which runs until 2028, and the lack of immediate financial pressure on KSV.

So, against the wishes of a player eager for a new challenge, the unwavering firmness of the club's directors won out. Following an excellent season last year, Lucas Stassin will now see out the campaign in Ligue 2 with Saint-Étienne, where all eyes will be on him after this tumultuous transfer saga.