Ismaelo Ganiou’s RC Lens renewal revealed after summer approaches

RC Lens have secured Ismaelo Ganiou’s long-term future after the 21-year-old defender attracted interest from AC Milan and Crystal Palace during the summer transfer window.

The French club have agreed a contract extension that will keep the Franco-Burkinabe player at RC Lens until 2030, giving them full control over his future after several approaches from abroad.

According to L’Equipe, RC Lens had set an asking price of €50m for Ganiou during the summer, reflecting the club’s belief in the potential of a defender regarded as one of its most promising young players.

AC Milan were among the strongest contenders for his signature. To persuade Ganiou to choose the Rossoneri, Ruben Amorim is reported to have contacted him personally by video call to explain the club’s project.

The conversation is understood to have lasted almost an hour. During it, the Portuguese coach outlined his ambitions and made clear his belief that Ganiou has the ability to become, in time, a future France international.

Crystal Palace were also monitoring the defender, according to the same report. Pierre Sage is said to have spoken with Ganiou in an attempt to convince him to move to the Eagles.

Despite the interest, RC Lens were determined to retain their young player and continue developing his potential over the long term. The new agreement prevents his immediate departure and strengthens the club’s position should further interest emerge.

Ganiou’s contract renewal underlines the growing attention surrounding him. His reputation continues to rise across the European market, although his current estimated market value is €20m significantly below the €50m figure reportedly set by RC Lens as the price required to consider a sale during the summer.

The defender’s new deal now ties him to the Sang et Or for the next several seasons and represents an important commitment from the club to a player seen as having the qualities to progress to the highest level.

RC Lens will soon face Paris Saint-Germain in the Trophee des champions final. Betting company 1xbet lists RC Lens at odds of 4.30 to win, with a draw priced at 3.80 and a Paris Saint-Germain victory at 1.76.

Ganiou’s future has therefore been settled before that meeting, with RC Lens having resisted interest from both AC Milan and Crystal Palace and secured the defender’s services through 2030.