Lens cancel Brice Samba’s €14m transfer to Rennes | OneFootball

Racing Club de Lens have decided to pull the plug on Brice Samba’s expected move to Ligue 1 rivals Rennes, according to a report from RMC Sport. Both clubs reached an agreement in principle over the sale of the Artois side captain to the Brittany side over a €14m transfer fee. The France international No. 2 goalkeeper also agreed on a four-and-a-half contract that would have tied him to Jorge Sampaoli’s Stade Rennais until 2029.

RC Lens head coach Will Still said today that there was nothing more to discuss regarding Samba’s transfer to Rennes. “I learned during the holidays that Brice wanted to leave the club. It’s annoying, because he’s the captain of the club, a very good goalkeeper. Keeping a player who no longer wants to be there is not necessarily a good thing, so it’s not that complicated.”

Instead, it appears Samba’s stay in Lens will be extended against his wish with the Artois side canceling his move to Rennes. RMC Sport reports that such a radical decision has been taken because of Rennes’ communication policy. Les Rouge et Noir have previously signed former Lens captain Seko Fofana and their president is none other than Arnaud Pouille, the club’s former CEO. Rennes face OGC Nice today for the first Ligue 1 game of the New Year.

GFFN | Bastien Cheval