AJ Auxerre are making progress in the transfer market with advanced talks for Congolese international defender Axel Tuanzebe. The Burgundy club is looking to bolster a defence that has struggled during a difficult start to the Ligue 1 season.
Negotiations are well underway for the 28-year-old player. A product of the Manchester United academy, Tuanzebe is a free agent after leaving Ipswich Town. His signing would represent an opportunity for Auxerre, who sit 18th in the championship with zero points after two losses. The club has conceded eight goals in just two matches, a record that explains the urgent search for solid defensive solutions.
Axel Tuanzebe is an experienced central defender, born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and developed in Manchester United's prestigious academy. He played for the Red Devils in the Premier League and also had loan spells at Aston Villa and Napoli. His most recent club experience was at Ipswich Town. Capped by the Leopards, he brings top-level experience and knowledge of English football. His free agent status is a major advantage for Auxerre, who could sign him without paying a transfer fee.
AJA's defence has been under severe pressure at the start of the 2026-2027 season. With eight goals conceded and only three scored, the goal difference stands at -5. This fragility is even more concerning as the club faces Olympique Lyonnais, 4th in the table, for their next match on September 4th. The technical staff must also deal with the absence of several players, as shown by the information on our injuries page. Assane Dioussé, Marvin Senaya and Sekou Fofana are currently sidelined, reducing options in defence and midfield. Signing an experienced defender like Tuanzebe therefore addresses an immediate need to try and reverse the trend.
Auxerre find themselves in a tricky situation after two matchdays. Consecutive defeats have left the team in the relegation zone, six points behind leaders AS Monaco. Every match becomes key to climb the table and move towards mid-table safety. The mission is clear: tighten up the defence to achieve more positive results. The upcoming fixtures schedule, including the trip to Lyon, will be decisive. The rapid integration of a new defender could provide the necessary stability. The club must be reactive in the transfer market to support the current squad.
Negotiations with Axel Tuanzebe and his representatives are now the focal point. If an agreement is reached, the player will need to pass the traditional medical before officially committing to AJA. His versatility, as he can play both as a central defender and a right-back, would be an asset for the manager. The goal would be to integrate him into the group as soon as possible, potentially before the international break, so he can contribute to the team's efforts. The sporting directorate is actively working on this deal, aware of the urgency imposed by the league standing and defensive performances. AJA's next appointment is an away trip to Lyon, scheduled for September 4th, 2026.
