Loïs Openda joins OL on €3.5m loan, to miss Betis trip | OneFootball

Loïs Openda has completed a paid loan move from Juventus Turin to OL for €3.5m with no option to buy, and he will not face Betis Seville on Wednesday.

Le Progres reports that Lyon had long targeted a specialist centre-forward, making this a major addition.

The former Lens striker was quickly convinced by the project after positive feedback about the city and club. He held extensive talks with the coach about his playing ideas and said he loves the game, wants to delight supporters and win.

Aged 26 and noted for pace and finishing, he fits OL’s criteria. He has 105 career goals, including 21 for Lens and 41 for Leipzig in 91 matches, and is a Belgium international with 33 caps. He could quickly energise Groupama Stadium alongside Lyon’s lively forwards.

OL will cover 40% of the Belgian’s wages after working within financial restrictions to secure approval from the authorities. Supporters must wait a little longer to see him in an OL shirt. He has yet to train with the team.

Source: Le Progres