Steven Fortes Completes Permanent Transfer to RC Lens After Successful Loan Spell
After a productive loan stint at RC Lens in the second half of the Domino’s Ligue 2 season, Cape Verdean defender Steven Fortes has completed a permanent move to the Sang et Or, the club officially confirmed on Friday. The announcement, made by Toulouse FC—Fortes’ former club—marks a significant step in the 30-year-old central defender’s career and signals RC Lens’ intent to build a solid defensive core for the upcoming season.
“Having spent the second half of last season on loan at Racing Club de Lens, Steven Fortes is staying with the Sang & Or. The central defender was transferred this Friday. The club and all the supporters wish Steven every success for the rest of his career,” Toulouse FC stated in their official release.
Fortes initially joined Lens on loan during the January transfer window, quickly establishing himself as a key figure in the team’s defensive setup. Over the course of the loan period, he made 20 appearances across all competitions, demonstrating both consistency and leadership at the heart of the defense. His contributions were instrumental in RC Lens’ strong performance in the second half of the season, helping the club secure vital points and climb up the Ligue 2 table.
Despite falling short of promotion after being eliminated by Dijon in the Ligue 1 promotion playoffs, RC Lens have emphasized their desire to retain the core of their squad. Securing Fortes on a permanent basis aligns with this strategy, ensuring the team retains one of the most experienced and reliable defenders in their lineup. His versatility as a central defender and ability to read the game effectively have made him an invaluable asset for manager Eric Sikora during the second half of the campaign.
Fortes’ journey to RC Lens has been marked by professionalism and resilience. Born in Cape Verde, he has carved out a steady career in French football, gaining experience across several clubs and bringing a wealth of defensive knowledge to the teams he has represented. His performances during the loan spell convinced RC Lens’ management that he was not just a temporary reinforcement but a player capable of contributing to the club’s long-term ambitions.
For Lens, the permanent signing of Fortes also sends a strong message to both fans and competitors: the club is committed to building a squad capable of challenging for promotion and establishing stability in the top tier of French football. Fortes’ experience, leadership, and solid performances provide a foundation upon which RC Lens can continue to strengthen and compete at the highest level.
With the new season approaching, Fortes will now have the opportunity to continue his development with Lens, fully integrated into the team, and ready to play a pivotal role in their campaign. Fans of the Sang et Or can look forward to seeing the defender marshal their backline with the same determination and quality he displayed during his initial loan spell.
Steven Fortes’ permanent move to RC Lens represents a win-win for both player and club: Fortes secures stability and a key role, while Lens retains a proven defender to anchor their ambitions in the coming season.
