Ivory Coast forward Rayan Fofana set to join Le Havre on loan

Ivorian-born striker Rayan Fofana is set to leave RC Lens temporarily, with the 20-year-old expected to join fellow Ligue 1 side Le Havre on loan for the 2026/27 season.

The proposed deal will reportedly be a one-year loan without an option to buy, meaning Fofana would return to Lens at the end of the campaign.

Fofana has attracted interest from several clubs in France and elsewhere in Europe after making an impression with Lens last season. However, with strong competition for places in the Lens attack limiting his opportunities, the young forward is understood to have opted for Le Havre as the next step in his development.

According to reports, Lens and Le Havre are working towards completing the agreement before the summer transfer window closes.

A move to Le Havre would give Fofana the opportunity to experience a new environment while potentially enjoying more regular first-team football. The striker will be hoping to use the loan spell to gain valuable Ligue 1 experience and further develop his game.

The 20-year-old enjoyed a promising campaign with Lens last season, making his presence felt in front of goal. He finished the campaign with five goals and one assist for the club.

Those performances have increased his profile and attracted interest from several clubs, but Lens appear keen to continue his development through a temporary move rather than part ways with him permanently.

If the deal is completed, Fofana will remain under contract with Lens while spending the 2026/27 campaign at Le Havre, where he will look to establish himself as a regular attacking option and continue his progress in Ligue 1.