AS Saint-Étienne are on the verge of securing their first major move of the transfer window with the imminent arrival of David Mimbang, a 17-year-old Cameroon U17 international midfielder.
Trained at the École de Football Brasseries du Cameroun (EFBC), this highly-rated prospect—considered one of the brightest talents of his generation—has even withdrawn from a tournament to travel to France and begin adapting to life with Les Verts. According to Allez les Lions and several outlets, negotiations are in their final stages, confirming Saint-Étienne’s success in beating strong competition.
Mimbang was also targeted by clubs such as RC Lens, RC Strasbourg, and even Chelsea FC, but ultimately chose the Saint-Étienne project, attracted by the club’s renowned academy and its track record in developing young talent.
Named best player at the UNIFFAC U17 tournament, he has stood out for his technical maturity, vision, and leadership—qualities well beyond his age. Expected in the Forez region in the coming days, he perfectly embodies ASSE’s strategy: investing in high-potential prospects to prepare for a return to Ligue 1.
If the move is confirmed, the official announcement will have to wait until his 18th birthday on August 15, due to FIFA regulations on the transfer of minors from Africa to Europe. In the meantime, the young midfielder will begin an adaptation phase to get accustomed to European football.
The club plans a gradual integration through its prestigious academy, known for producing world-class players.
This five-year deal highlights the continued appeal of AS Saint-Étienne, even while competing in Ligue 2 and undergoing a rebuilding phase. A bold investment in the future, Mimbang’s arrival strengthens the club’s young squad and signals a new era focused on talent development.
Saint-Étienne fans can already dream of a future Cameroonian star lighting up the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.