RC Lens are on the verge of securing the long-term future of academy graduate Mezian Mesloub, with the 16-year-old attacking midfielder set to sign his first professional contract with the Ligue 1 side. The French-born teenager has turned down formal offers from Portuguese champions SL Benfica and Dutch club PSV Eindhoven to commit his immediate future to the club where he developed through the youth ranks.
Immediate impact at senior level
Despite his tender age, Mesloub has already announced himself in senior football. He made his professional debut in May, replacing a teammate late in the match against FC Nantes. The substitute made an instant impression, scoring the decisive winner just five seconds after entering the pitch to secure a 1-0 victory for Les Sang et Or.
The youngster has carried that momentum into the current preseason schedule. Operating in his preferred attacking midfield position, Mesloub found the net twice during a 4-1 friendly victory over US Boulogne CO, further demonstrating his readiness for regular senior involvement.
International options
Mesloub’s background provides him with multiple international pathways. Born in France, he currently represents Portugal at youth level. However, he also retains eligibility to represent Algeria, giving him three potential senior national teams to choose from as his career progresses.
Fending off continental rivals
Tying down the talented teenager was a top priority for Lens officials this summer. The club faced significant competition from established European outfits, with Benfica submitting a concrete contract offer and PSV Eindhoven also monitoring his situation closely.
By choosing to sign his first professional deal with Lens rather than accepting proposals from Lisbon or Eindhoven, Mesloub has demonstrated faith in the club’s pathway for young players. The agreement marks a significant retention success for the French club, who have managed to ward off interest from two well-respected developmental sides to keep their homegrown talent.