Saint-Étienne activate purchase option for Pierre Ekwah from Sunderland, but top European clubs lurking for Summer sale | OneFootball

Despite AS Saint-Étienne’s relegation to Ligue 2, the club have moved to secure the permanent signing of midfielder Pierre Ekwah (23) from Sunderland – but the Frenchman may not be sticking around for long.

Ekwah, who arrived on loan from the Championship side last summer, was one of the most consistent performers in a difficult campaign for Les Verts, making 30 appearances in all competitions. His performances convinced the club to activate the €6m purchase option included in his loan deal. The former West Ham academy product had been under contract in England until 2027.

However, Ekwah’s future at the Geoffroy-Guichard is far from guaranteed. A report from L’Équipe indicates that several top-flight clubs across Europe have already registered their interest in the defensive midfielder. Given Saint-Étienne’s relegation and financial context, the club could be open to selling their new signing to generate funds.GFFN | George Boxall