Malang Sarr has left RC Lens following the expiration of his contract, the club announced on Tuesday. The 27-year-old defender played a significant role in Lens’s recent success, including their Coupe de France victory, making 62 appearances for the club over two seasons.
According to La Voix du Nord, Sarr did not respond to the club when presented with a contract extension offer, leading to his departure on a free transfer. Lens reportedly attempted to negotiate a renewal, but were unable to reach an agreement with the player.
Sarr joined Lens in 2022, establishing himself as a key member of the squad. Prior to his time in France, the centre-back spent time in the Premier League with Watford and Chelsea, although his opportunities were limited at both clubs. He also has experience in the Portuguese Primeira Liga with Porto.
Fenerbahçe have reportedly already made multiple offers to Sarr, and are considered the frontrunners to secure his signature. The Turkish club are actively strengthening their squad ahead of the new season, and see Sarr as a valuable addition to their defensive options.
In addition to Sarr’s departure, RC Lens have also confirmed that Arthur Masuaku will leave the club. Masuaku’s loan deal from Sunderland has concluded, and he will return to the English side. His time at Lens was punctuated by a red card shortly after his arrival, and he didn’t consistently feature in the starting eleven. These departures leave Lens with gaps to fill in their squad as they prepare for upcoming competitions. The club recently appointed a new coach, and will be looking to build on their recent successes.
