RC Lens have targeted RB Leipzig defender El Chadaille Bitshiabu as a primary candidate to reinforce their left-sided central defense, according to reports from Le Parisien and Foot Mercato. The 21-year-old center-back, who came through the academy at Paris Saint-Germain, is reportedly open to a return to France after finding regular playing time difficult to secure in the German Bundesliga.
The Path from Paris to Leipzig
Bitshiabu departed his formative club Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023, sealing a transfer to RB Leipzig for a reported €15m fee. However, the towering defender has struggled to nail down a consistent spot in the starting XI for the German side. Across all competitions last season, he managed 14 appearances.
Le Parisien understands that Bitshiabu would not be opposed to returning to L’Hexagone to jump-start his development. His current contract with RB Leipzig runs through June 2029, meaning any potential deal would require robust negotiations with the Bundesliga club, which has already drawn interest from other unnamed suitors.
Lens Balance European Ambitions with Defensive Needs
Lens are preparing for a rigorous campaign that includes competing in the UEFA Champions League.
Alongside the pursuit of Bitshiabu, Lens have also evaluated alternative profiles on the transfer market.
Alternative Targets and Market Complexities
Foot Mercato reported that the Ligue 1 club explored a deal for France youth international Nathan Zeze, who moved from FC Nantes to Saudi Pro League side Neom SC last season.
However, securing Zeze presents significant logistical and financial hurdles. A move for the young defender is considered complex due to high overall costs, alongside heavy competition from Serie A side Bologna and Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt.
With negotiations for multiple targets fluid, Lens continue to weigh their options as the transfer window progresses.
Worth a look
