Saint-Étienne have confirmed the signing of defender Sohaib Naïr from Guingamp, the club announced on Wednesday. The Algerian centre-back has agreed to a four-year contract with Les Verts, keeping him at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard until 2030, and will wear the number 18 shirt. The transfer represents the first new arrival for Saint-Étienne this summer as they prepare for another campaign in Ligue 2.
Naïr joins Saint-Étienne having made 52 appearances for Guingamp. The 26-year-old, born in Saint-Denis, was a regular in the Guingamp squad, contributing consistently to their defensive line. While financial details of the transfer were not disclosed, the move is seen as a significant step for Naïr, offering him a prominent role at a club with ambitions of returning to Ligue 1.
The signing comes shortly after Saint-Étienne appointed Ian Cathro as their new head coach, signalling a period of rebuilding for the historic club. Cathro’s arrival and Naïr’s acquisition suggest a clear intent to strengthen the squad following their play-off defeat to Nice which denied them promotion to the top flight. The club began pre-season training on Wednesday, with six friendly matches scheduled as part of their preparations.
Saint-Étienne will begin their Ligue 2 season on August 8th with an away match against fellow promoted side Sochaux. After narrowly missing out on promotion through the play-offs last season, the club will be looking to mount another strong challenge for a return to Ligue 1. The addition of Naïr is expected to bolster their defensive options as they aim to achieve that goal, providing competition and depth in a key position. This move allows Saint-Étienne to address a need in their backline with a player who has proven experience in the French professional leagues.
