Algerian international Mehdi Merghem, a 28-year-old winger, transferred to Bastia in a context that Salah Assad described as an emergency sporting situation and a personal opportunity. Merghem signed a six-month contract with an option. Salah Assad states that this reflects mutual prudence. Merghem has been capped 5 times for Algeria. So far this season in Ligue 1, he has made 14 appearances, scoring 1 goal and providing 2 assists. His market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €450k.