Salis Abdul Samed’s chapter with RC Lens appears to be closing, as the Ghanaian international edges closer to a permanent switch to English side Sunderland.
The midfielder, currently on loan at the Championship club, is unlikely to return to the French outfit at the end of the season.
Despite a campaign hampered by injury setbacks, Abdul Samed has made 11 appearances for the Black Cats, showing flashes of the talent that initially brought him to the attention of European clubs.
His performances, though limited, have reportedly impressed Sunderland’s hierarchy, who are now open to keeping the 24-year-old on a long-term basis.
Sources close to the situation indicate that both player and club are aligned in their intentions. According to French outlet L’Équipe, Abdul Samed is enjoying his spell in England and is eager to remain with Sunderland beyond the current loan deal.
The midfielder has found a sense of comfort and continuity in the North East, and is said to be enthusiastic about contributing to the club’s ambitions moving forward.
RC Lens, meanwhile, have no intention of reintegrating him into their squad. The Ligue 1 side, who loaned him out in search of regular minutes and development, appear to have moved on from the player.
Even in the event of a return to France, Lens have reportedly made it clear that he is no longer part of their long-term plans.
These developments pave the way for a straightforward transition. With all parties seemingly in agreement, Abdul Samed is well-positioned to secure a permanent transfer to Sunderland in the coming months.
The move could prove mutually beneficial: the Black Cats would gain a promising midfielder with top-flight experience in France, while the player himself would be given the opportunity to rebuild consistency in a competitive environment.
Adding further intrigue to the situation is Sunderland’s current playoff run, which could result in promotion to the Premier League.
The club faces Sheffield United in a crucial clash this Saturday, with a potential return to England’s top flight hanging in the balance. Should they succeed, the lure of Premier League football could further solidify Abdul Samed’s decision to stay.
For the Ghanaian international, a permanent move to the Stadium of Light would mark a fresh start and a chance to fully integrate into a team that appears to value his presence.
Though his time at RC Lens seems to be coming to a quiet conclusion, his journey in English football may just be beginning.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Sunderland’s next move and whether they formalize the midfielder’s stay.
With the club’s promotion hopes still alive and Abdul Samed reportedly settled, a deal could soon be sealed, bringing clarity to a season that began in uncertainty.
