Super Eagles striker Gift Orban is nearing an exit from Ligue 1 outfit Olympique Lyon.
The Nigerian has struggled for game time and also off-field issues, which has impacted his struggles at the club.
Olympique Lyonnais is preparing for a critical January transfer window, with reports suggesting that up to ten players could depart as the club battles severe financial difficulties and the looming threat of relegation to Ligue 2.
L’Équipe has revealed that Lyon, under scrutiny from French football’s financial watchdog, must take decisive action to stabilize its finances.
Selling players has become a key strategy to raise funds and avoid a potential demotion at the end of the season.
Reinforcements Expected from Botafogo
Amid the financial turbulence, Lyon is eyeing reinforcements from sister club Botafogo.
Thiago Almada, Luiz Henrique, and Adryelson have been linked with potential moves to the Rhône-based outfit.
However, it is understood that Almada could instead complete a transfer within Brazil.
Luiz Henrique and Adryelson, on the other hand, remain viable options to bolster Lyon’s struggling squad as they fight to climb out of the relegation zone.
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Key Players and Fringe Talents Set for Exit
Lyon is expected to part ways with a mix of fringe players and key first-team contributors to generate much-needed revenue.
Among those likely to leave due to limited opportunities this season are Anthony Lopes, Saël Kumbedi, Mahamadou Diawara, and Paul Akouokou.
However, the financial challenges have also forced Lyon to consider selling some of their most valuable assets, including Rayan Cherki, Maxence Caqueret, Ernest Nuamah, Saïd Benrahma and Super Eagles striker Gift Orban.
Wilfried Zaha, who is currently on loan, could also see his deal terminated early to save the club from paying a substantial portion of his wages.
Financial Stability and Survival at Stake
The January transfer window, opening on the first day of the new year, will be a pivotal period for Lyon.
The club must strike a delicate balance between offloading players and maintaining a squad capable of climbing out of the relegation zone.
