Super Eagles invitee Gift Orban is in Germany to complete a transfer that will see him leave Olympique Lyon during the upcoming January transfer window.
Orban, who joined Lyon last year after an impressive spell at KAA Gent, was signed by the French club for a fee around €14 million, including bonuses. However, the Nigerian forward has struggled to settle in France, scoring only five goals in 21 appearances. As a result, Lyon has decided to part ways with him, deeming him surplus to requirements.
Although several top European clubs showed interest in Orban, Hoffenheim has emerged as the front-runner. The Bundesliga club is currently in 15th place in the league standings and is looking to strengthen its squad by bringing in the 21-year-old striker.
Reports from transfer specialists Fabrizio Romano and Matteo Moretto confirm that Orban has arrived in Germany to finalize his move to Hoffenheim. Only minor details remain before the deal is officially completed. After rounds of negotiations, Hoffenheim’s final offer, believed to be around €10 million, met Lyon’s demands.
This transfer represents a financial loss for Lyon, who signed Orban for €12 million last year, with the total fee rising to €14 million after bonuses. Despite interest from RC Lens, Hoffenheim’s offer quickly became the most attractive, paving the way for Orban to make his Bundesliga debut in the new year.