middlesbroughAfter AS Saint-Étienne did not exercise the buyout clause, Abdoulaye Kante had to return to the championship team.
The defensive midfielder spent this year on loan at the Ligue 2 side and enjoyed regular playing time.
In April, the Middlesbrough man said he would like to extend his stay at Saint-Étienne.
At that time when he was asked whether he wanted to remain with the club. He said: : "yes of course."
On June 14, Game Witness Covered claims from France That Saint-Étienne has not made any decision on retaining him.
After losing the promotion play-off final to OGC Nice, the French club have decided not to make his loan permanent through the clause.
middlesbrough man's section is no longer valid
people-greenA website that dedicates its coverage to AS Saint-Étienne, including the latest information on the 20-year-old's future.
Abdoulaye Kante joined Middlesbrough from Troyes in July 2025 and did not enjoy regular minutes. His situation did not improve after the arrival of Kim Helberg last November.
Therefore, the Frenchman went on loan and enjoyed regular minutes this year. The buyout clause has expired and as things stand, he will have to return to the Riverside Stadium. He is unlikely to have a future at Boro and will have to find a new club this summer.
Although the buyout clause is no longer valid, the midfielder can still return to Saint-Étienne on a new deal.
The outlet claims the Ligue 2 side have not 'completely ruled out' his return, but 'nothing has been finalized yet.'
There is no indication how this might happen, but the Kante case is the 'most pressing' matter for Saint-Étienne.
Our Opinion: Loan Deal with Conditional Obligation
Peupel-Vert made no mention of the formula the second division club is looking for to sign Abdoulaye Kante.
Middlesbrough could consider agreeing a new loan deal provided they win promotion. This could work for both clubs, provided there are no other suitors and he gives his approval.
The player's contract is until 2030, and transfer market Estimate his value at €5m.
