Stade de Reims announced on Tuesday, July 7, that striker Sambou Soumano, 26, has signed a contract running until 2030. The forward, released by Lorient, joins the "Sang et Or" after a successful loan at Rodez and a season in Ligue 1 with the Merlus.

Why is this transfer significant for Reims?

Soumano’s arrival addresses a clear need: more goals. In Ligue 2, Reims sit 6th with 56 points, recording 14 wins, 14 draws and 6 losses from 34 games, and a recent form of W‑D‑D‑W‑D. Adding a centre‑forward who has already netted two goals in 21 appearances for Rodez could shift the offensive balance, especially as the team has scored 53 and conceded 35 this season, a +18 goal difference.

What is Sambou Soumano’s background?

The Senegalese striker began his French career at Rodez, playing 21 matches and scoring twice. A loan spell at Quevilly‑Rouen followed before he moved to Lorient on loan for the latter half of the 2022‑2023 season. He then helped Lorient earn promotion to Ligue 1 in 2025 and featured in the top flight last season, gaining valuable experience at the highest level.

How does Reims plan to use their new signing?

Head coach Ismaël Bamba intends to deploy Soumano as a focal point in a two‑striker system, partnering the current leading scorer. The plan is to position him as the main target man, exploiting his pace and positioning to create space for attacking midfielders. The club hopes this will narrow the 11‑point gap behind leaders ESTAC Troyes and push for promotion.

What are the fans expecting?

Reims supporters are eager to see Soumano score early in the campaign. A contract through 2030 signals the club’s confidence, but fans want tangible output: at least five goals before the season’s halfway point. The Auguste Delaune stadium could soon echo with more of his strikes.

The team, currently 6th in Ligue 2 with 56 points, continues to chase promotion. Soumano’s arrival may be the decisive factor to close the 11‑point deficit to ESTAC Troyes and revive the title race.