Lens and Rennes Still in Discussions Over Brice Samba Transfer

According to Lens CEO Pierre Dréossi, negotiations between Lens and Rennes regarding the transfer of goalkeeper Brice Samba (30) are still underway. Dréossi provided an update on the situation prior to Lens’ home match against Toulouse in Ligue 1.

Initially, Samba had agreed to a four-and-a-half-year contract with Rennes, with Lens accepting a €14 million transfer fee in principle. However, the deal unexpectedly fell through, reportedly due to Lens’ dissatisfaction with Rennes’ communication approach.

Dréossi revealed that Samba expressed his desire to leave Lens in late 2024, which came as a surprise to the club. He stated, “The negotiations have been complex and prolonged, lasting about ten days, but an agreement has not yet been reached.” The CEO also confirmed that Lens is likely to seek a replacement goalkeeper.

The transfer saga has been further complicated by reports that Lens’ goalkeeping coach, Hervé Sekli, requested to join Samba in the move to Rennes. As discussions continue, both clubs are working to find a resolution that satisfies all parties involved.