Anderlecht bolsters defence with veteran Léo Pétrot signing

RCS Anderlecht announced on Thursday the signing of 29‑year‑old centre‑back Léo Pétrot from Elche CF, sealing a two‑year contract that runs until 2028. He previously featured for AS Saint‑Étienne and helped his former club gain promotion to Ligue 1.

Pétrot is a product of the AS Saint‑Étienne youth academy and began his senior career with Andrézieux‑Bouthéon. He later joined FC Lorient, where he made 23 appearances in the 2021–22 season.

He amassed 99 appearances for AS Saint‑Étienne, establishing himself as a regular starter in defence. During the 2023–24 season he featured in 38 matches and scored a crucial goal against FC Metz in the Ligue 1/Ligue 2 play‑offs, aiding the club’s return to the top flight.

Pétrot moved to Elche CF last summer and featured in 36 matches across all competitions. He started 21 of those games, contributing to the Castilian side’s successful battle to retain its La Liga status.

Anderlecht sought a seasoned centre‑back with proven promotion experience to reinforce their back line. Pétrot’s consistent playing time and defensive reliability in both French and Spanish leagues matched the Belgian club’s need for depth.

The two‑year deal secures Pétrot’s services until 2028, giving Anderlecht a versatile defender for the coming seasons. His addition is expected to bolster competition for places and provide a steady option in central defence.

For Pétrot, the move returns him to the Belgian Pro League, offering a fresh challenge after his stint in Spain. The contract provides stability and the chance to re‑establish himself at a club with European ambitions.