Thorgan Hazard

Joins Lens on permanent deal

Hazard signed with Lens through 2028 after his contract with Anderlecht expired, the club announced.

Analysis: Hazard returns to the club where his career began, having progressed through Lens' academy before signing his first professional contract there in 2011. The 33-year-old attacking midfielder brings extensive experience with 522 career club appearances, including 64 in UEFA competitions, along with 47 caps for Belgium, following spells at Chelsea, Zulte-Waregem, Borussia Monchengladbach, Borussia Dortmund, PSV Eindhoven and Anderlecht. He was one of Jupiler Pro League's most productive players last season with 20 goal contributions for Anderlecht, including a hat trick against Zulte-Waregem, and was named league player of the month in February. Hazard is expected to slot in as a key attacking option for Lens as the club prepares for a Champions League campaign this season.