Traspasos
Sassuolo secure loan deal for Union St. Gilloise defender Fedde Leysen
The 22-year-old Belgian defender joins the Italian side on loan from the Belgian First Division outfit.
Sassuolo have moved to bolster their defensive options by completing the signing of Fedde Leysen from Union St. Gilloise on loan, the club confirmed on Wednesday.
The deal, which was finalized on August 20, sees the young Belgian defender arrive at the Mapei Stadium as the Serie A side looks to add depth to their backline ahead of the new campaign.
Leysen, who developed through the youth ranks at Union St. Gilloise, has been a consistent figure in the Belgian capital’s defensive line since making his senior debut. His performances earned him recognition at youth international level with Belgium, and he has made multiple appearances for the first team in both domestic competition and European qualifiers.
The loan move provides Leysen with the opportunity to gain regular minutes in one of Europe’s top leagues. Sassuolo, known for developing young talent and giving players a platform to showcase their abilities, offer an ideal environment for the 22-year-old to continue his progression.
Union St. Gilloise confirmed the transfer in a statement released through their official channels, thanking Leysen for his contributions and wishing him well during his time in Italy. The Belgian side emphasized that the loan includes an option for a permanent transfer, though no further financial details were disclosed.
For Sassuolo, the arrival of Leysen adds tactical flexibility to their defensive setup. Manager Alessio Dionisi has been keen to reinforce the squad following a transitional period, and the addition of a young, left-footed defender aligns with the club’s strategy of integrating emerging talent into the first-team picture.
Leysen is expected to be introduced to the squad during pre-season training, where he will compete for playing time alongside established defenders. His arrival is not viewed as an immediate starter but rather as a long-term investment in squad stability and rotation.
The loan agreement runs through the remainder of the 2026–27 season, with an option for Sassuolo to extend should they choose to exercise it. Medical tests were completed successfully earlier in the week, and all administrative formalities have been concluded.
This marks another cross-border move between Italian football and Belgian clubs, continuing a trend of Serie A teams scouting talent from the Belgian league system. Sassuolo’s recruitment team has previously identified promising players from Belgium, and Leysen represents the latest example of that pipeline.
The defender will wear the number that becomes available in the squad list, with the final allocation to be confirmed by the coaching staff. He is anticipated to feature in upcoming friendly matches as he adapts to his new tactical surroundings.
Leysen’s departure leaves a gap in Union St. Gilloise’s defensive rotation, particularly with several key players nursing minor injuries during the summer window. The club has indicated they are exploring potential replacements, though no official pursuit has been announced at this stage.
The move underscores Sassuolo’s commitment to nurturing young European talent, building upon a reputation established over recent years through shrewd acquisitions and player development. Leysen joins a list of similar signings aimed at balancing experience with youthful exuberance.
Both clubs expressed satisfaction with the swift completion of the transfer, noting that negotiations concluded without complication. The player himself is reportedly excited about the challenge ahead and is focused on making a positive impression in Italy.
Further updates regarding Leysen’s integration into the team, including squad number confirmation and match availability, will be communicated by Sassuolo in due course.