Openda ‘to join’ Lyon on loan from Juventus | OneFootball

According to L'Équipe, 26-year-old Belgian forward Openda is set to become Lyon’s new centre-forward on a season-long loan from Juventus for a fee of three million euros, with no option to buy. Juventus will cover a large share of his gross annual wage of eight million euros. He had reached an agreement with Lyon’s hierarchy several days ago.

After early deals for Kail Boudache, Mads Bitstrup, Julien Duranville and Mohamed Ouedraogo, Lyon turned to securing a number nine following the loan returns of Endrick and Roman Iaremtchouk. Despite promising pre-season displays from 18-year-old Rémi Himbert, head coach Paulo Fonseca wants an experienced striker to complete his squad before the campaign begins.

The club did not pursue a permanent purchase for a number nine this summer, with finances dictating sales first, so a loan was the only route. Openda endured a difficult 2025-26 at Juventus, scoring only two goals in 34 appearances in all competitions. He hopes to rediscover the form that made him prolific at Lens and Leipzig between 2022 and 2024.

Talks with Juventus were lengthy, with the Italian club preferring a Premier League loan where more of his salary could be covered. Openda pushed for Lyon and the prospect of Champions League football under Fonseca, which is not yet guaranteed.

Lyon are expected to pay only a small percentage of his wages for the season, alongside the loan fee. It could prove a smart piece of business if he regains confidence and sharpness.

Source: L'Équipe