With Lyon’s financial situation becoming more dire by the day, Premier League clubs are circling like vultures, ready to pounce on the club’s most valuable assets.
Relegation from Ligue 1 is a looming threat, and Lyon could face a massive exodus as they try to balance their books. But with several talented players still on their books, is this the perfect time for Premier League sides to make a move? Let’s take a look at 7 Lyon players who are catching the attention of top English clubs and what makes them stand out.
Lyon’s 7 Best Players That Premier League Clubs Should Watch
7. Johann Lepenant (Midfielder)
Age: 22
Transfermarkt Value: £5.9m
Why is Lepenant only just starting to show his potential? After suffering from injuries, the French midfielder struggled to establish himself at Lyon. However, his loan move to Nantes this season has reignited interest, especially with his impressive performances in Ligue 1. He was once a target for top clubs like Arsenal, but is his future still in France, or will a Premier League club take a gamble on him?
6. Said Benrahma (Winger)
Age: 29
Transfermarkt Value: £12.6m
Could Benrahma return to the Premier League after a challenging stint at Lyon? The Algerian international has been a proven performer in England, particularly with West Ham, where his stats show 15 goals and 16 assists in 110 top-flight games. With Lyon struggling to find consistent form, could Benrahma’s talents find a better home back in England? His next move could be crucial to his career.
5. Maxence Caqueret (Midfielder)
Age: 24
Transfermarkt Value: £15.1m
Caqueret's work rate and versatility are what make him stand out. Yet despite being a regular in Lyon’s midfield, he has struggled to take that next step, even missing out on a spot with the senior French national team.
Could a fresh start in the Premier League be just what he needs to reignite his career? Teams looking for a player who can anchor their midfield may see him as an attractive option. Aston Villa and Newcastle have been linked with the midfielder.
4. Gift Orban (Forward)
Age: 22
Transfermarkt Value: £12.6m
After a stunning first half of the 2022-23 season in Belgium, Orban made his move to Lyon but hasn’t quite lived up to the early hype. However, his knack for finishing and his potential to become a reliable goalscorer remains. With a potential Premier League move on the cards, Orban is the type of forward who can make a difference for a team fighting against the drop and securing survival with his clinical finishing.
3. Ernest Nuamah (Winger)
Age: 21
Transfermarkt Value: £15.1m
Was Ernest Nuamah almost a Premier League player already? Reports suggest that he was on the brink of joining Fulham in the summer before pulling out at the last minute. Now, with a less-than-ideal situation at Lyon, could he be more inclined to make the move this time? While his stock has dipped slightly after a limited role this season, Premier League clubs might still see potential in the Ghanaian winger.
2. Malick Fofana (Winger)
Age: 19
Transfermarkt Value: £12.6m
Could Fofana be the next big thing in the Premier League? At just 19, his performances at Lyon are already drawing comparisons to stars like Alejandro Garnacho. While still raw, his directness, ability to beat defenders, and knack for scoring goals could be just what many Premier League teams need.
1. Rayan Cherki (Attacking Midfielder/Winger)
Age: 21
Transfermarkt Value: £16.7m
And now, we get to Lyon’s crown jewel. Rayan Cherki has long been touted as one of the most exciting young talents in France, and his potential has only grown. A versatile attacking midfielder who can play on either wing, Cherki's ability to create and score goals has caught the attention of some of the biggest Premier League clubs.
Some ask; 'But why hasn’t he reached his full potential yet? And could his attitude off the ball be a concern for potential suitors? Regardless, with only 18 months left on his contract, Cherki could soon be available for a bargain. He might be the ideal pick-up for a Premier League club looking to inject flair into their squad.
From emerging stars like Rayan Cherki to seasoned pros like Said Benrahma, there are plenty of options for clubs looking to make savvy signings in January. With Lyon’s relegation battle looming and their need to raise funds, it’s only a matter of time before some of these players make their way to the Premier League. Which one will be the first to leap?
Follow Think Football Ideas across our social channels, on Facebook, X [Twitter] and Instagram.
Comments