Southampton Make Move for Lens Striker Morgan Guilavogui

Southampton have started talks with RC Lens to sign forward Morgan Guilavogui. Negotiations continue, but there is no agreement yet on the transfer fee.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Southampton began talks with Lens for Morgan Guilavogui on August 18, 2025. Guilavogui, a 26-year-old Guinea international, recently returned to Lens after a loan at St. Pauli in Germany. He performed well in Germany, prompting Lens to use their buy-back clause for the 2025-26 season. Southampton want more attacking options, but haven’t agreed on a fee yet. Discussions are ongoing as they try to reach an agreement.

LENS AND SOUTHAMPTON: TEAM AND PLAYER CONTEXT

RC Lens finished 8th in Ligue 1 in the 2024/25 season, just missing out on European qualification by 5 points. Guilavogui scored twice in 28 games in the 2023-24 season before moving to St. Pauli, where he helped them avoid relegation. Southampton, who were relegated from the Premier League following the 2024/25 season, are currently 15th in the Championship after two matches, just one point above the relegation zone. Guilavogui’s signing could boost their attack, as they’ve only scored one goal so far, struggling with creativity and finishing.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR SOUTHAMPTON AND LENS?

Southampton aim to complete the signing before the transfer window closes. Their next match is next weekend. Lens, meanwhile, face Le Havre in Ligue 1, as both teams aim to climb the table. Negotiations for Guilavogui will continue amid the teams’ focus on upcoming games. If Southampton can agree on a fee, Guilavogui could soon make his Premier League debut, providing new attacking options for a goal-shy squad.