What are the best defensive moves to make in the transfer market?

After a tumultuous end to the season, HAC has finally secured its third consecutive maintenance in Ligue 1. Despite limited resources, the former sports leadership embodied by Mathieu Bodmer has proven to be savvy in the summer transfer market. Bodmer has since departed, but his former assistant Mohamed El Kharraze is expected to take over. He will have his work cut out for him.

Now let’s introduce some names that may interest HAC in this transfer window! These are free agents who could fit within the club’s modest budget, which is expected to be very limited.

(Note: This article discusses free agents on the market and is not related to any HAC interests. It was created in collaboration with Clement de Space HAC.)

In this first episode, we focused on the defensive sector. The goalkeeper position, midfield, and attack will be covered in other upcoming articles.

The defense, a huge market overhaul!

Since HAC’s promotion in 2023, defense has been a strong point. But a revolution is imminent with players like Arouna Sangante and Gautier Lloris potentially leaving.

The HAC may only retain Stephan Zagadou as a central defender, presenting a major challenge. The left-back position offers more certainty with Koffi and Zouaoui.

Who will replace Nego if he leaves?

The ideal profile: Koffi Kouao

Kouao, a 27-year-old Ivorian full-back, could be a valuable addition given his recent performances at Metz.

Another interesting option: Alec Georgen from Dunkerque, a technically gifted defender, has also drawn attention.

Other profiles include Warren Kamanzi, Djibril Sidibe, Alpha Sissoko, Romael Pierre-Gabriel, and William Mikelbrancis.

Finding gems in the central defense!

While there are established free agents like Burgess, Marlon, and Duarte, their current salaries may be too high for HAC. Dan-Axel Zagadou and Mees Hilgers are risky but promising choices.

Additional options include Jean Hugonet, Idris Mohamed, Dimitri Lavalée, Javi Castro, and Jean Ruiz.

In case Zouaoui or Koffi depart…

The ideal profile: Ghislain Konan, a left-back who could bring experience from Reims.

Another interesting choice: Arthur Zagre, a young left-back form PSG and Monaco, who has excelled in the Dutch league.

Other profiles worth considering are Kevin Rodrigues, Hassane Kamara, and Mehdi Dorval.

Photo credit: USL Dunkerque