January 18 (THEWILL) – French Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyonnais have officially announced the signing of 21-year-old Nigerian striker, Gift Orban, from Belgian club KAA Gent. Orban has signed a four and a half-year contract, keeping him at Lyon until 2028, for a reported fee of €13 million.
Orban rose to prominence in 2022 after an impressive run of form saw him score 20 goals in 22 appearances for Gent. Although his output has slowed this season, he has still been prolific in the Europa Conference League, netting 9 goals in 10 matches. The signing makes Orban the first Nigerian player in Lyon’s history, despite 582 players having featured for the club.
The capture follows Lyon’s recent signing of 18-year-old Malick Fofana from Gent for €17 million earlier in the January transfer window. Orban will provide added firepower up front as Lyon look to improve their league position in the second half of the season, although he may initially struggle to displace Alexandre Lacazette in the starting XI.
His performances for both club and country at youth level suggest Orban could develop into an excellent long-term acquisition for Lyon as they look to regain past glories both domestically and in Europe over the coming years. The Nigerian international will be eager to make an immediate impression once he joins up with his new teammates.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
