RC Lens have opened negotiations with Stade de Reims for the signing of Senegal international goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf, as the northern French side look to reinforce their squad ahead of the new Ligue 1 season.
Diouf, 25, was a standout performer for Reims last season despite the club’s relegation to Ligue 2.
His impressive displays, including a key role in guiding Reims to the Coupe de France final, have attracted the attention of several top-tier clubs, with Lens emerging as frontrunners for his signature.
The goalkeeper, who has just one year remaining on his contract at Reims, has become a priority target for Lens following the departure of Brice Samba midway through the campaign.
Samba’s exit has left a significant gap in the squad, prompting Lens to turn to Diouf as a potential long-term solution between the posts.
According to reports from L’Équipe, discussions between the two clubs are ongoing, though a final agreement has yet to be reached due to differences in player valuation.
Reims are understood to be willing to sell, but only if their asking price is met.
Diouf’s stock has risen considerably in recent months, not only for his club performances but also on the international stage.
Having switched his allegiance from France to Senegal in March 2025, he has since earned call-ups to the national team, where he is now seen as a strong challenger to first-choice goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.
Lens, who narrowly missed out on European qualification last season, are keen to complete the deal swiftly in order to integrate Diouf into their pre-season preparations.
With his agility, command of the area, and recent international exposure, the goalkeeper is viewed as a strong addition to Franck Haise’s squad.
For Reims, Diouf’s departure would mark the end of a key chapter.
However, relegation has forced the club into a position where offloading valuable assets has become a financial necessity.
As negotiations continue, both clubs will be hoping to reach a compromise that satisfies all parties.
For Diouf, a move to Lens would represent a return to top-flight football and a chance to cement his place as one of Ligue 1’s top goalkeepers.
