Lens target Troyes’ Abdoulaye Ndiaye in search to replace Massadio Haïdara | OneFootball

It looks increasingly likely that RC Lens will lose their defender Massadio Haïdara (31) after the Mali international reached an agreement to join FC Nantes, although there is a stumbling block in the way.

According to Foot Mercato, Lens will not allow their player to leave without a suitable replacement already lined up. Les Sang et Or have worked tirelessly in recent weeks to find this adequate option to facilitate the move, but with the transfer deadline day rapidly approaching there is a hint of desperation to their search.

The club have looked at a number of options but each has had some issue that has derailed their progress, the most recent being their failed attempt to sway Barcelona into releasing their highly rated prospect, Mikayil Faye (19).

Lens turn to Ndiaye

Following this rejection, Lens will now turn its attention to ESTAC and their young defender Abdoulaye Ndiaye (21). The centreback for the Ligue 2 side will soon return from international duty with Senegal after being eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations by host Côte d’Ivoire.

Ndiaye has been a rare bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season for Troyes as the club languishes in 15th place floating just above the relegation zone. It’s expected that Lens will attempt to coax Troyes with a bid exceeding €10 million, but as of now, Troyed have shown no interest in selling their player.

GFFN | Nick Hartland