In search of a central defender, an attacking midfielder and a right winger during the looming winter transfer window, Olympique Lyonnais must deal with a recruitment ban. However, OL can still request a few loans to get into the DNCG. Here are some potential avenues for Les Gones.
Thiago Almada (Botafogo)
World champion with Argentina (he played 6 minutes against Poland) in 2022, Thiago Almada was recruited for nearly 20 million euros by Botafogo last summer. Theoretically, the attacking midfielder should join OL in the coming days.
The player himself announced his desire to taste Ligue 1 in January. To satisfy the DNCG, John Textor, owner of the two clubs, could move towards a loan.
Luiz Henrique (Botafogo)
As we said, both properties of John Textor, OL and Botafogo are closely linked when we talk about the transfer window. In addition to Thiago Almada, Lyon could also see Luis Henrique land this winter.
The 23-year-old right winger has made a place for himself in the Brazil team since last September. Capable of playing in the center, he could be of great service to Pierre Sage's group. Here again, the player estimated at 22 million euros will only be able to land as part of a loan.
Jean-Clair Todibo (West Ham)
This is a rather surprising rumor relayed by Nice-Matin recently. What if Jean-Clair Todibo returned from his loan to West Ham to sign for OL during this winter transfer window? The central defender, who belongs to Nice, does not really know what tomorrow will bring.
As it stands, it's hard to see the former FC Barcelona player making a comeback in Ligue 1 so quickly. But the interest seems real. Will a loan with an obligation to purchase satisfy everyone? In any case, it would be a significant reinforcement in a sector in demand.
Marco Asensio (PSG)
A few days ago, we relayed the rumor that PSG could offer Marco Asensio to OL with a view to signing Rayan Cherki. On paper, the affair seems to be off to a bad start, if only in view of the emoluments of the former Real Madrid man.
But the capital club, which faces strong competition for the French Olympic vice-champion, could benefit from this supposed interest from Lyon in Asensio. And take charge of a good part of the Spaniard's salary. Who could relaunch in the Rhône. Win-win?
Taha Altıkardeş (Göztepe)
Last month, Taha Altıkardeş was heavily linked with Olympique Lyonnais. If several of its players are mentioned in Türkiye, OL could also make their market in a country where the transfer window closes its doors a little later.
Göztepe does not seem open to the departure of its 21-year-old central defender. But the combined interests of Anderlecht, Genk, Torino, Feyenoord, Mainz and even Union Berlin should push him to be greedy. Here again, can President Textor's club get by with a loan subject to an obligation to purchase? Nothing is less certain.
Pure northerner, who prefers a good National match with USBCO to the rivalry between RC Lens and LOSC. Fan of big atmospheres above all, from ASSE to OM via Strasbourg. To arms!
