Florian Thauvin: Leca dismisses talk of Lens departure

Florian Thauvin appears set to remain with RC Lens as the club approaches the end of the transfer window. Sporting director Jean-Louis Leca used a pointed joke to reject the idea that the winger is a likely departure, making the club’s position on his future clear.

Thauvin, 33, plays on the right wing for Lens and has a market value of €5 million. He joined the French club from Udinese for €6 million during the 2025-26 season, after previous spells with Tigres UANL, Marseille and Newcastle. His current status at Lens is therefore unchanged despite the late-market discussion.

Leca also indicated that around 80 to 90 per cent of Lens’ transfer business is complete. The club has already added six players, but further moves will depend on its sporting and financial limits. Lens cannot provide two established options for every position, while departures are needed before additional recruitment can be considered.

The director did not completely close the door on more activity, leaving room for an opportunity that fits the club’s plans. His comments nevertheless place the emphasis on retaining the existing squad, with Thauvin included, rather than preparing for the France international’s exit.