Lens weigh move for RB Leipzig defender El Chadaille Bitshiabu

RC Lens have made enquiries about RB Leipzig defender El Chadaille Bitshiabu as they consider a late move to strengthen their squad before the transfer window closes.

The French club have already made significant progress with their recruitment but are still assessing options in several areas. One of their priorities is central defence, particularly on the left side, and Bitshiabu is among the profiles being examined by Lens’ recruitment team.

According to Le Parisien, Lens have contacted the relevant parties to establish the conditions of a possible deal for the 21-year-old. The club are seeking information about what would be required to complete a transfer before the end of the market, although no agreement has been reported.

Bitshiabu remains under contract with RB Leipzig until 2029. The defender, who previously played for Paris Saint-Germain, is also being monitored by other clubs. However, the player is understood to be open to the prospect of returning to Ligue 1, a competition he already knows from his time in France.

A move to Lens could also give Bitshiabu the opportunity to play in the Champions League. That possibility may be an important factor as he considers his next step, with European football potentially strengthening the appeal of a return to his home country.

Born in Villeneuve-Saint-Georges, Bitshiabu is currently valued at €18m by Transfermarkt. His reported annual salary is €2,830,000, equivalent to 1,858,000,000 FCFA.

The defender came through the Paris Saint-Germain academy before leaving France for Germany. His long-term contract means RB Leipzig are in a strong negotiating position, while Lens must decide whether the financial terms of a deal fit within their plans for the final stages of the transfer window.

Lens are also preparing to face Strasbourg in the second round of the French championship. That match will take place very soon, adding an immediate focus on the club’s domestic campaign while discussions over possible defensive reinforcements continue.

The betting company 1xbet has published prices for the fixture. Its listed odds are 3.40 for a Lens victory, 3.60 for a draw and 2.14 for the other match outcome, which is also described in the supplied listing as a Lens win. The odds do not represent confirmation of any transfer negotiations involving Bitshiabu.

For now, Lens’ interest remains at the enquiry stage. The club have gathered information on the defender’s availability and the likely cost of a deal, but the player’s contract with RB Leipzig, reported interest from other teams and the approaching deadline will all influence whether the move develops further.