Lens agree €1m loan deal for Servette winger Junior Kadile

RC Lens have reached an agreement with Servette FC to sign Franco-Congolese winger Junior Kadile, with the 23-year-old set to join the French club on loan with an obligation to buy.

The deal is understood to be worth €1m for the loan, with Lens committed to paying a further €6m to make the transfer permanent. Subject to a late change in circumstances, Kadile will sign a five-year contract with Racing Club de Lens.

Kadile has attracted attention after an impressive half-season with Swiss club Servette FC. In 13 appearances, he has scored six goals and provided 10 assists, form which persuaded Servette to activate the €1m purchase option in his agreement with Almere City.

Hull City, who have recently been promoted to the Premier League, had previously moved ahead in the race to sign the winger. However, Lens stepped up their efforts in recent hours and have now secured an agreement with Servette, according to Foot Mercato.

The structure of the transfer underlines the confidence Lens have in Kadile’s longer-term potential. Rather than simply taking the player on a short-term loan, the mandatory purchase clause gives the move a clear path towards a permanent transfer.

Kadile came through the academy at Stade Rennais but has yet to play in Ligue 1. A move to Lens would therefore give him his first opportunity to compete in France’s top flight, after developing his experience away from his formative club.

At Bollaert, his direct style could provide another attacking option. Kadile is known for his dribbling, pace and ability to create openings, qualities which could add greater penetration and unpredictability to Lens’ forward line. His ability to beat defenders and produce decisive moments may also help him make an immediate impression on the club’s supporters.

The agreement would see Kadile return to France after making his breakthrough at Servette FC. His next challenge will be to establish himself at the highest level of the French game and turn his strong spell in Switzerland into a successful Ligue 1 campaign.

Lens are due to play their second match of the French championship against Strasbourg shortly. The published betting prices from 1xBet list Lens at 1.93 to win, with a draw priced at 3.80 and a Strasbourg victory at 4.10.