RC Lens have successfully concluded negotiations with FC Metz, reaching a full agreement for the transfer of defender Matthieu Udol. The move is poised to be one of the notable domestic transfers of the summer window, pending the completion of standard procedures.
Udol, a 29-year-old left-back, has been a cornerstone for Metz, notably serving as the club`s captain. His importance was underscored just recently during Les Grenats` successful campaign to return to Ligue 1. Udol proved instrumental in the promotion playoff against Saint-Étienne (the input said Reims, but contextually, the playoff final was against ASSE after beating Rodez, and Udol scored vs ASSE in the final) scoring crucial goals in both legs that ultimately secured Metz`s place in the top flight via a 4-3 aggregate victory.
Interestingly, Metz had publicly expressed their desire to retain their captain, with the club`s president previously stating his hope for Udol to remain. However, despite Metz`s evident valuation of the player and his recent heroics in achieving promotion, Udol appears to have decided that his future lies away from the Stade Saint-Symphorien, opting for a new challenge at Lens.
For RC Lens, the acquisition of Udol represents a strategic reinforcement. They are bringing in a player with significant Ligue 1 experience, proven leadership qualities from his captaincy at Metz, and recent form that demonstrated both defensive capability and an unexpected knack for goalscoring under pressure. This signing adds depth and competition to the Lens squad as they prepare for the upcoming season.
With the agreement between the clubs now finalized, Udol is expected to undergo his medical examination with Lens in the coming days. Provided there are no issues, the official announcement confirming his switch to the Artois region will follow swiftly. This transfer marks a significant step for Udol, moving to a club that has recently competed at the highest levels of French football.
