Chelsea terminate Malang Sarr contract as forgotten defender joins Lens

Chelsea have announced the early termination of Malang Sarr’s contract after the defender agreed to join RC Lens.

The 25-year-old former France youth international made just 21 first-team appearances in four years with the Blues. During that time, he had loan spells with Porto and Monaco.

On Friday, Lens announced the signing of Sarr on a two-year contract, including the option to extend by a further season.

Sarr played for France at every age group bar the seniors but struggled to make an impression at Chelsea after joining them from Nice in 2020.

A statement from Chelsea on Saturday evening read: “Chelsea Football Club and Malang Sarr have agreed to terminate the defender’s contract.

“The Frenchman departs Stamford Bridge having made 21 appearances since joining in August 2020. Sarr spent time on loan at Porto and Monaco during his time at the club.

“We wish Malang all the best for the future.”

Chelsea began their pre-season tour of the United States on Wednesday night with a 2-2 draw against League One side Wrexham in California.

They face Scottish champions Celtic on Saturday evening at Indiana’s Notre Dame Stadium. Celtic stunned Manchester City 4-3 in their second pre-season friendly on Wednesday.