Nigerian forward Gift Orban could be on the move again after a difficult spell in Germany.
The 23 year old joined Hoffenheim from Lyon in January for about nine million euros. Expectations were high, but his time in the Bundesliga has not gone as planned.
In 14 league appearances he managed only three goals. He has also been used sparingly in pre season, which shows coach Christian Ilzer does not see him as a key player for the new campaign.
Hoffenheim are now ready to let him leave if they can recover a good part of the fee they paid earlier this year.
Toulouse Enter the Race
French Ligue 1 side Toulouse have stepped forward and are in advanced talks with Hoffenheim.
According to reports in France, the club see Orban as the right man to strengthen their attack. They need more firepower to stay safe in the French top flight and believe the Nigerian striker can provide that spark.
The main challenge remains his price tag. Orban is currently valued at around €10m, which may be too much for Toulouse.
To manage the cost, they could push for a loan move with an option to buy later. That way, they can test him without heavy financial risk.
A Career at a Crossroads
For Orban, this move could be a turning point. He has already shown his ability in the past.
During his time at Gent in Belgium he scored an amazing 15 goals in 16 games during the 2022-23 season. That run of form made top European clubs, including Barcelona, take notice.
But his career slowed after his move to Lyon and later Hoffenheim. Lack of playing time has hurt his progress and he has not been able to reach the same level. At his age, regular football is more important than anything else.
Toulouse may not be among the giants of French football, but they could give Orban the platform he needs to rebuild.
Ligue 1 is familiar ground for him after his short stay at Lyon. A return to France might help him settle faster and recover his best form.
