RC Lens are facing a critical juncture in their efforts to retain Sierra Leonean centre-back Juma Bah beyond the current season, with time rapidly running out and competition for the Manchester City loanee growing.
Bah joined the French club on loan in January 2025 following a brief spell at Real Valladolid and a subsequent signing by Manchester City during the winter transfer window.
Since arriving at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis, the 21-year-old has quickly cemented his place in the side, drawing praise for his composure and strength at the heart of the defence.
His performances have impressed Lens’ coaching staff and management alike, prompting the club to consider extending his stay into next season.
However, the situation is complicated. Manchester City, while in no urgent rush to integrate Bah into their first team, are reportedly open to loaning him out again, but not necessarily to RC Lens.
That leaves the French side in a precarious position. While they are keen to maintain the defensive solidity Bah has brought in his short time at the club, they must now re-enter negotiations with both the Premier League champions and the player himself.
Crucially, the Sierra Leonean international is believed to be weighing interest from other clubs, including sides competing in European competitions.
Sources suggest that Bah is open to exploring opportunities that may offer greater exposure and a chance to compete on the continental stage.
This is something Lens, not currently involved in European tournaments, cannot provide. This potential shift in the player’s priorities presents a significant challenge for the Sang et Or, who risk losing out if swift and convincing action is not taken.
Despite his limited appearances, just eight games in total with six of them starts, Bah has made a tangible impact at Lens. His ability to adapt quickly, combined with a string of confident displays, has endeared him to the coaching staff.
A short spell on the sidelines due to injury briefly halted his momentum, but he has returned to feature prominently in the final stretch of the campaign.
The club now faces a race against time to secure a second loan spell or even explore a permanent move.
With Manchester City likely to be fielding interest from other suitors, Lens must present a compelling case not only to their Premier League counterparts but to the player himself.
Convincing Bah to remain in Ligue 1 could hinge on a number of factors, including the promise of regular first-team football, a clear development plan, and the trust already established between the player and coaching staff. Whether that will be enough remains to be seen.
With just weeks remaining in the season, RC Lens are under pressure to act decisively. Juma Bah’s next move could shape not only his own trajectory but also the defensive future of the club that has come to rely on his burgeoning talent.
