Lens aims to sign a Curaçao international

Lens, sitting second in Ligue 1 with 70 points, has announced its intention to recruit a Curaçao international to boost its attack. The club, which has scored 66 goals and conceded only 35 this season, wants to fill the gaps and keep its momentum after a 3-1 win over Nice on May 22, 2026.

Who is the targeted player?

The name being floated is Quincy van der Linde, right‑back of ASV Dudelange, who recently shone with the Curaçao national team. Van der Linde, 24, boasts blistering pace and has featured in 12 international matches, scoring two goals. His profile matches Lens' needs after the loss of Nidal Čelik to a long‑term injury.

Why does this signing matter for Lens?

With a +31 goal difference, Lens already has a solid defence, but Čelik's absence left a hole on the right flank. Adding an international‑experienced player brings depth and a winning mentality that could help the club narrow the six‑point gap with leaders Paris Saint‑Germain. Sporting director Frédéric Antonetti said, "An international profile brings a winner’s mindset."

What are the next steps?

The club plans to start negotiations this summer, before the transfer window closes on August 31. If a deal is reached, the player could join training in the first week of July, taking part in the pre‑season camp on the French Riviera. Fans are eager to see how the new addition will fit into Franck Haise’s system, which has delivered a four‑game winning run (WWWWL) before the summer break.

How will this affect the title race?

By maintaining its form, Lens could shrink the six‑point deficit to Paris Saint‑Germain and stay in the title hunt. The ability to keep 22 wins, 4 draws and 8 losses over 34 games shows consistency that, combined with fresh talent, could turn second place into a championship. Upcoming fixtures against LOSC Lille and OGC Nice will be crucial to gauge the impact of the new signing.