Metz must trim squad before recruiting, bottom at the winter break | OneFootball

Metz sit bottom of Ligue 1 at the winter break and are prioritising outgoings before any arrivals as they chase survival.

According to L'Équipe, after the 2-3 defeat to PSG on 13 December, sporting director Frédéric Arpinon said that without departures, arrivals are not guaranteed. He added that far more is required from the current squad, a message relayed to players with a firmer tone.

Several exits are being explored, including Cheikh Sabaly, Sadibou Sané and Joël Asoro. If that happens, former Metz player Bouna Sarr, 33, a free agent training with the club since 4 November, would be first in line. The right-sided midfielder is appreciated internally for his versatility and professionalism.

At left-back, Fodé Ballo-Touré, 28 and under contract until June, has looked promising when fit but has struggled physically. Belgian youngster Yannis Lawson, 21 and tied to 2028, is considered short of Ligue 1 requirements.

A reinforcement is also being studied in the middle if someone leaves, with Ivorian Christ Tapé, 19, among the options. AC Horsens want between 2 and 3 million euros to buy out his deal to 2028, and suitors are numerous. Meanwhile, talks to extend Ivorian pair Koffi Kouao, 27, and Jean-Philippe Gbamin, 30, both out of contract at season’s end, are not advancing.

Metz’s targets are one left-back and one right midfielder. Finances are limited, the club must sell to buy.

Source: L'Équipe