Mercato: Lees-Melou Explains Whirlwind Paris FC Move: "I Needed a New Project"

In a revealing interview with RMC Sport, Paris FC's new midfield engine, Pierre Lees-Melou, has opened up on the astonishing speed of his transfer from Brest and the personal ambition behind the surprise move.

A 48-Hour Whirlwind

Forget drawn-out transfer sagas. Lees-Melou's switch to the capital was a masterclass in efficiency, catching many by surprise. The player himself seemed almost taken aback by the pace of the deal, revealing the move was sealed in a matter of hours.

"It all happened very quickly," Lees-Melou stated. "In under 24 hours, there were concrete contacts between my agents and the sporting director. Within 12 hours, everything accelerated, and we had a deal in principle. After that, it was about negotiating with Brest, and 24 hours later, I was here."

A Departure Driven by Ambition, Not Discontent

Lees-Melou was keen to pay respect to his former club, where he enjoyed the most productive spell of his career. However, the 31-year-old admitted he felt his cycle in Brittany had come to a natural end and the pull of a fresh challenge was too strong to ignore.

"I felt I had done all I could at Brest—and I say that with the utmost respect for the club, where I’ve had the best footballing years of my life," he explained. "But I felt I had gone full circle. I needed a new, ambitious project, and I believe I’ve found that here."

While excited by the project under construction at Paris FC, the experienced campaigner was quick to temper expectations, signalling that the hard work is just beginning for the Ligue 1 newcomers.

"It’s not going to be easy this season. Anyone who thinks this club has a massive budget and it will be plain sailing is making a huge mistake," he cautioned. "But that’s exactly why I wanted to be part of it—to bring my experience to this challenge. I’m thrilled to be here."

The signing is a major statement of intent from Paris FC as they look to build a squad capable of surviving and thriving in France's top flight.