Lens have completed the signing of Polish centre-back Maik Nawrocki from Celtic Glasgow for a fee of €2.5 million, the club confirmed on Friday. The 25-year-old has signed a four-year contract with the Ligue 1 side, arriving as the club continues to strengthen its defensive options. Nawrocki’s move comes days after Lens secured the services of his compatriot, Michal Skoras.
Celtic had Nawrocki under contract until 2028, but the player was not part of manager Martin O'Neill’s plans for the upcoming season. He spent the previous campaign on loan at German second-tier side Hannover 96, where he made 17 appearances, scoring three goals and providing three assists. This loan spell proved successful, showcasing his ability to adapt to European football.
Lens have been actively rebuilding their squad during the transfer window, and the addition of Nawrocki addresses a need for depth in the centre of defence. The club finished sixth in Ligue 1 last season, narrowly missing out on European qualification, and are aiming to improve on that performance in the upcoming campaign. The Polish defender’s height – he stands at 1.90m – and right-footedness will add a different dimension to their backline.
According to L’Équipe, Lens are also on the verge of completing a deal for Curaçao international Armando Obispo from PSV Eindhoven. The report states the fee for Obispo will be €4 million plus bonuses, and he is expected to sign a four-year contract. These signings signal Lens’ ambition to compete at the higher end of the Ligue 1 table, building a squad capable of challenging for European places. Nawrocki’s arrival strengthens a Lens side looking to build on a promising recent season.
Nawrocki has no relation to the Polish president, Karol Nawrocki, as confirmed by the club. He will join a Lens team hoping to solidify their position as one of the league's most exciting teams.
