The most electric headband in football is back on French soil! In a move that defines "market opportunity," RC Lens officially announced the signing of Allan Saint-Maximin on Monday, February 2, 2026.
The 28-year-old winger returns to Ligue 1 on a six-month contract (with an option to extend) after a brief and turbulent spell in Mexico with Club América.
The Escape from Mexico: Why He Left
Saint-Maximin’s departure from Club América was as sudden as one of his trademark sprints. Just six months after his £10 million move to the Liga MX giants, the Frenchman terminated his contract by mutual consent following a series of distressing incidents.
The Catalyst: Saint-Maximin revealed on social media that his decision to leave was fueled by repeated racial abuse targeted at his children.
The Response: Club América issued a strong statement of solidarity, condemning the discrimination and thanking the player for his service.
The Free Agent Loophole: Having terminated his contract before the deadline, "ASM" was free to choose his next destination, and the allure of a title-chasing Lens proved irresistible.
A Title Boost for the Artois Club
Lens find themselves in an unexpected and thrilling Ligue 1 title race against Paris Saint-Germain. By adding Saint-Maximin, head coach Pierre Sage gains a"X-factor" that could tip the scales in the final months of the season.
Feature,Allan Saint-Maximin
Position,Left Winger / Forward
Contract,Until June 2026 (Option to extend)
Last Club,"Club América (15 appearances, 3 goals)"
Role at Lens,Explosive reinforcement for Morgan Guilavogui
Jean-Louis Leca (Sporting Director): "Allan is a player who defies logic on the pitch. We knew his situation in Mexico, and as soon as the opportunity arose, we didn't hesitate. He knows Ligue 1, he has the pace we need, and he is hungry to prove himself again in France."
The Verdict: This is a low-risk, high-reward move for Lens. If Saint-Maximin can find the "electric" form he showed at Newcastle and Nice, Lens have just secured the most dangerous substitute in the league for absolutely zero transfer fee.