Montpellier eyeing Salis Samed as RC Lens prepare to let him go

Abdul Salis Samed has been demoted to RC Lens’ reserves, as the Ghana midfielder is expected to leave the club during the summer transfer window.

Having joined Lens in 2022, Samed’s future now appears uncertain, with the club opting to move him to the reserves while decisions are made regarding his next steps.

According to French media, Samed, who typically plays as a deep-lying midfielder, is attracting interest from Montpellier. There are also possibilities of him moving abroad, with two weeks remaining in the transfer window.

Samed was notably absent from RC Lens’ squad for their Ligue 1 opener against Angers on Sunday. Manager Will Still explained the decision, stating, “For the well-being of the group and the training sessions, it was necessary to trim the group a little,” as reported by Foot Mercato.

The 24-year-old, who is open to leaving the club, made 72 appearances for Lens, scoring one goal and providing one assist. Samed was instrumental in his first season, helping Lens secure Champions League qualification.

His performances earned him a contract extension, reportedly with a salary increase. However, he struggled last season, leading to his current situation.

Samed originally joined Lens from Clermont Foot in a deal worth €5 million. Although his contract extension was supposed to keep him at the club until at least June 2028, the landscape has shifted, and he now looks set to move on.