RC Lens are determined to hold on to Senegalese-born midfielder Andy Diouf despite mounting interest from several top European clubs.
The 22-year-old, who featured in 34 Ligue 1 matches last season and scored once, has established himself as a vital part of Franck Haise’s squad.
His consistency and dynamic presence in midfield have drawn attention from abroad, with Napoli, RB Leipzig, Stuttgart and Crystal Palace all closely monitoring his situation.
Diouf, a French youth international of Senegalese descent, has been identified as a player of significant potential, with his performances in France’s top flight underlining his progress since joining Lens.
His blend of athleticism, technique and composure has made him one of the standout young midfielders in Ligue 1, and interest from across Europe has inevitably followed.
Lens, however, are in no mood to part ways with the player. The club view Diouf as central to their long-term project and are not willing to open discussions over a transfer.
With his current deal running until 2028, the midfielder remains firmly tied to the Artois side’s ambitions for the coming seasons.
For the clubs circling, that contract represents a considerable obstacle. Any potential suitor would need to present a highly convincing proposal to tempt Lens into negotiations, and even then, the French club’s reluctance suggests a sale is far from likely.
The interest nonetheless highlights Diouf’s rising stature on the European stage. Napoli, seeking reinforcements in midfield, view him as a player capable of thriving in Serie A, while RB Leipzig, known for investing in emerging talent, have placed him on their radar.
Stuttgart, too, are monitoring his progress in the Bundesliga market, with Crystal Palace representing the Premier League’s interest in his services.
For Diouf, the speculation is an acknowledgment of his growing reputation, yet his immediate future appears firmly anchored in northern France.
Lens’s commitment to retaining him reflects both their belief in his ability and the club’s determination to maintain stability as they look to build on recent seasons.
While the final weeks of the transfer window can often bring unexpected twists, at present Lens’s stance is unequivocal: Andy Diouf is not for sale.
The midfielder remains a cornerstone of their project, and those hoping to prise him away may either need extraordinary persuasion or simply bide their time.
