Report – Gent’s Gift Orban set to join Lyon till 2028

Gift Orban, who joined KAA Gent in the 2022-23 summer transfer window, is poised for a move away from Belgium after just a year

Super Eagles invitee, the 21-year-old Nigerian striker, is set to join Olympique Lyon for a reported fee of around €13 million, Soccernet.ng reports.

According to Lequipe, the Nigerian forward who moved from Stabaek Fotbal to join KAA Gent in the last winter transfer window is expected to travel to Lyon on Wednesday to finalize the deal with the Ligue 1 club.

Despite earlier links to prominent teams like Barcelona, Leeds United, and Tottenham, Lyon appears to be securing his signature, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirming the imminent deal.

Orban made a name for himself as a formidable striker during his initial six months with the Buffaloes, scoring an impressive 20 goals in 22 games.

His notable quick hat-trick in the 2022-23 UEFA Europa Conference League against Basaksehir highlighted his prowess.

While this season has not seen him at his peak, with 12 goals in 30 appearances for Gent, his overall record of 32 goals in 52 appearances has captured the attention of numerous clubs.

Notably, Orban attracted interest from Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro, who personally scouted him in Belgium. Although he was unable to play in the 6-0 victory against Sao Tome and Principe due to an injury he picked up during training.

Reports indicate an issue with Orban’s nationality, leading to his exclusion from the squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament.