Official | Lens announce loan for Benfica’s Franjo Ivanović

Lens, the French football club, has confirmed the arrival of Franjo Ivanović, a 22-year-old Croatian striker, from SL Benfica on a loan deal without an option to buy. This marks the sixth signing for Lens in the current transfer window, as the team seeks reinforcements following a series of exits after the previous season's end. Lens managed to outbid Lazio to secure Ivanović's signature.

The forward had the opportunity to continue his UEFA Champions League experience with Lens, having made seven appearances in the competition during the previous season. Ivanović's tenure in Portugal began positively, with him scoring on his Champions League debut against OGC Nice. He was a regular feature in the team at the start of the season, both in the league and the Champions League.

However, following the dismissal of Bruno Lage and the appointment of José Mourinho in mid-September, Ivanović's chances of starts diminished significantly. In total, he made 42 appearances across all competitions, scoring nine goals and assisting three, but only started 15 matches (six of which occurred before Mourinho's arrival).