AS Saint-Étienne has officially confirmed the permanent signing of Maxime Bernauer (26). The club exercised the purchase option for the defender, who has penned a contract valid until 2027.
Bernauer initially arrived at Saint-Étienne on a six-month loan from GNK Dinamo Zagreb during the winter transfer window. While at the Croatian club, the right-back accumulated 43 appearances, including matches in the Champions League.
He returned to France aiming to help Saint-Étienne consolidate their position in Ligue 1, following their promotion via the playoffs the previous season. However, Les Verts ultimately faced relegation back to Ligue 2.
Saint-Étienne is likely hoping that Bernauer`s prior experience in Ligue 2 will be beneficial for an immediate return to the top flight. Before his move to Zagreb in 2023, Bernauer played two seasons in the French second division for Paris FC.
