Olympique Lyon has turned down offers from both RC Lens and Bundesliga side TSG Hoffenheim for Nigerian forward Gift Orban, according to reports from ballgist.com.
The 21-year-old, who has struggled to establish himself in Lyon’s first team, is expected to leave the club in January after being excluded from the squad for several weeks.
RC Lens made an €8 million bid for Orban, but Lyon has reportedly rejected the offer, holding out for a fee of €12 million. This marks the second time Lens has expressed interest in the Nigerian forward, having also pursued him during the summer transfer window.
Meanwhile, Hoffenheim has been more proactive in their pursuit of Orban, reportedly submitting two offers, the latest of which was valued at €10 million. However, Lyon is holding firm on their asking price as they look to recoup a higher fee for the player they acquired from Belgian side KAA Gent in January 2023.
Orban has found it difficult to secure regular playing time at Lyon, largely due to the strong presence of forwards Alexandre Lacazette and Georges Mikautadze. Despite showing promise at Gent, his opportunities in France have been limited, intensifying speculations about a move away from the club in the upcoming transfer window.
With Lyon’s firm stance on a €12m asking price, it remains to be seen whether Lens or Hoffenheim will meet their demands or whether other clubs will enter the race for Orban’s signature.
