RC Lens have signed goalkeeper Brice Samba from Nottingham Forest for a reported £4m. The club announced: “A new challenge ahead! After 3 years spent in the ranks of Nottingham Forest in the Championship, Brice Samba returns to France. At 28, the Congolese porter returns to Ligue 1 and is part of the Lensois project for the next 5 seasons. The former Caennais brings placement intelligence and physical density to the goal line.”
Arnaud Pouille, Managing Director: “The first word that comes to me is constancy. I would like to thank Brice and his entourage for the consistency they have shown throughout the discussions. Nottingham was not selling its goalkeeper who was very popular with Forest followers. Brice believed in our project without ever deviating from course, to the point of reconsidering the prospect of playing in the Premier League, which was one of his objectives. With this big arrival, we are strengthening ourselves in the goalkeeping sector. We have a thought for Wuilker (Farinez) who is beginning his long recovery, we also salute Jean-Louis (Leca) repositioned in number 2 this season. Like the other executives in the locker room for a few seasons, he will certainly be able to facilitate the integration of Brice by transmitting the human values of Racing. Welcome to Sang et Or Brice!”
Florent Ghisolfi, sports director: “It’s no secret to anyone, in relation to the possibility of playing in the Premier League and the requests he has had, following his great season, Brice made a strong choice by coming to RC Lens. I would also like to thank his entourage, and particularly his agent Meïssa N’Diaye, for the high quality work, and for having believed in our project in connection with Brice. Welcome to your new Brice Samba family!”
