Official | Thibault De Smet joins Paris FC from Reims | OneFootball

Stade de Reims have confirmed the departure of Thibault De Smet (26) who will join Paris FC on loan but with a mandatory purchase clause. The versatile Belgian defender becomes the first signing in a new era for the capital club after they were taken over by the billionaire Antoine Arnault and Red Bull.

The new owners are hoping to gradually incorporate Paris FC in French football’s elite although reports have suggested that they want to avoid bringing in too many players at this stage. De Smet is considered a defender who will not unsettle the team but provide much-needed experience as they look to win promotion back to the top flight.

Last season, De Smet was a key part of Will Still’s Reims side. However, the change of head coach over the summer with Luka Elsner coming in as the permanent successor to Still saw De Smet’s game time dramatically decrease. The Belgian has only started three times in his five appearances this season.

GFFN | Nick Hartland