The RC Lens has undertaken a meticulously planned mercato, in line with Pierre Sage’s vision, a new sports director succeeding Will Still. Unlike previous strategies that favoured young talent, the current leadership team, led by Jean-Louis Leca, has favoured a balance between experience and potential. This approach is reflected in the integration of confirmed players such as Thauvin, Udol, Edouaard and Sima, while cultivating the development of young people from the training centre, including Fodé Sylla, Anthony Bermont and Rayan Fofana. The arrival of young talents trained internally is a priority displayed by Pierre Sage, who even envisaged the acquisition of a promising attacker before finally opting for Odsonne Edouaard in order not to compromise Fofana’s progress.

The integration of Rayan Fofana, a 19-year-old attacker, is a concrete example of this strategy. He started Ligue 1 successfully, already obtaining two tenures and actively contributing to the team’s attack with a goal and a decisive pass. Pierre Sage had clearly expressed his will to keep it, despite the interest of several Ligue 2 clubs. The arrival of Odsonne Edouaard, for 3.7 million euros, is seen as a strategic bet, allowing the club to benefit from an experienced player while leaving room for the rise of young talent.

The acquisition of Edward, who accepted a wage cut to join Lens, is part of a logic of recovery after difficult seasons in England. His past, including 87 goals in 179 games with Celtic Glasgow, demonstrates his offensive potential. Pierre Sage sees this strategy as a mutually beneficial investment, ensuring both an immediate offensive presence and the opportunity to develop young players. The club relies on the fact that, even if the bet on Edouaard is not fully realized, Fofana will have the opportunity to flourish and become a key player for the future.