Lens Revives Interest in Jean Butez as Samba’s Departure Looms

RC Lens is preparing to enter the transfer market in search of a new goalkeeper as Brice Samba, 30, edges closer to joining Stade Rennais. The French club finds itself in a position where it must generate funds, leaving little room to prevent Samba’s exit.

While Hervé Koffi was brought in during the summer as a potential successor to Samba, Lens is still considering additional options. The club has shown interest in Trabzonspor’s Ugurcan Cakir, 28, but other candidates are also being evaluated.

One such candidate is Royal Antwerp’s Jean Butez, 29. The French goalkeeper, who began his career with Lens’ local rivals Lille OSC, was previously targeted by Lens before Samba decided to stay. Now, with Samba’s departure seeming imminent, Lens has rekindled its interest in Butez.

Despite Butez being in advanced talks with Como, Lens has initiated fresh discussions with Antwerp to explore the possibility of a January transfer. As the situation develops, Lens continues to assess its options to strengthen its goalkeeping position for the remainder of the season.