Report: Auxerre Star Defender Being Targeted Across Europe

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·21 April 2025

Report: Auxerre Star Defender Being Targeted Across Europe

Rising Star Clément Akpa Drawing Premier League and Bundesliga Interest

Rapid rise from Ligue 2 champion to Ligue 1 standout

French football has quietly witnessed the emergence of a defensive talent who is beginning to turn heads well beyond the borders of Ligue 1. Clément Akpa, who helped AJ Auxerre claim the Ligue 2 title last season, has adapted seamlessly to life in the top tier. At just 23, the Ivorian defender has become a cornerstone of Christophe Pélissier’s backline, making 24 league appearances and showing versatility across both left-back and central defensive roles.

His manager didn’t hold back when discussing the youngster’s evolution: “In 2023, we brought back a player who was playing in the National team. But he’s already a regular in Ligue 1 and an Ivorian international. So he’s a player who works extremely hard, having progressed very well and quickly. At the start of this season, I didn’t think he would be one of the most used players. He asks himself a lot of questions about the game and what he needs to do to improve. Being a father at a young age has given him a great sense of responsibility.”

Akpa’s rapid development has not gone unnoticed by his club either. Auxerre moved quickly to secure his services long-term, tying him down until June 2027 — a deal reflecting both trust and anticipation of growing interest.

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International debut adds to rising profile

March marked another milestone as Akpa made his senior debut for the Ivory Coast national team, earning minutes in back-to-back 1–0 victories against Burundi and Gambia. Though both came as substitute appearances, they signal a growing trust at international level, aligning with his domestic form.

Physically dominant and tactically aware, Akpa has shown himself capable in high-pressure duels — an asset for clubs in search of powerful defenders. He continues to grow into the role of a left-sided centre-back, particularly suited to a three-man defensive system. His timing, awareness, and ability to recover quickly make him a natural fit for such a setup.

Premier League and Bundesliga clubs circling

With Auxerre likely to sell this summer to balance the books, interest in Akpa has grown significantly. In the Premier League, both Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton have shown concrete interest. Meanwhile, Bundesliga outfits including Eintracht Frankfurt, Hoffenheim, and Stuttgart have also made their admiration known.

Recent data from DATA’Foot placed Akpa among Ligue 1’s elite in defensive duel success rate — alongside the likes of William Pacho and Facundo Medina — reinforcing his reputation as one of Europe’s most tenacious emerging defenders.

Though Transfermarkt currently lists his value at €3 million, insiders suggest a higher fee will be required to prise him away. For now, formal discussions have yet to begin, but with multiple clubs across Europe preparing summer moves, Auxerre could be bracing for a bidding war.

What this means for clubs like Man City and Real Madrid

Akpa’s profile echoes the kind of young, high-ceiling defenders both Man City and Real Madrid have historically tracked — and at times, missed out on. While Akpa isn’t yet linked directly to either club, his profile could intrigue both. Man City, known for smart early recruitment under Txiki Begiristain, have successfully integrated the likes of Rodri, who joined from Atlético Madrid and quickly became central to Pep Guardiola’s plans.

Rodri’s arrival highlighted the importance of physical dominance and tactical intelligence in top-level squads. As Real Madrid also prepare for the eventual transition of defensive stalwarts, players like Akpa represent valuable long-term investments.

Whether Akpa makes the leap this summer remains to be seen, but what’s clear is this: Europe’s elite are watching.