Turkish Super Lig club Trabzonspor has emerged as a leading contender to sign Nigerian striker Gift Orban during the upcoming January transfer window, according to Bold SportsNG.
Reports from Turkey indicate that Trabzonspor is currently in pole position to secure Orban’s signature, despite competition from rivals Galatasaray.
Negotiations with Lyon have reportedly already begun for the 22-year-old forward. In addition to Trabzonspor, other European clubs are also expected to express interest in the talented striker.
Orban, along with other top players at Lyon, faces an uncertain future as the club struggles with financial difficulties. Lyon has been hit with a provisional Ligue 1 ban and a transfer ban, prompting them to address a pressing need to secure £91 million (€100m) to overturn these sanctions.
Trabzonspor had previously attempted to sign Orban during the summer transfer window, offering €10 million. However, Lyon insisted on a €12 million valuation for the Nigerian. The groundwork laid during those earlier discussions could play a pivotal role in finalizing the deal this time around.
Orban joined Lyon last January from Belgian side Gent for €14 million but has struggled to meet expectations. He has found it difficult to break into the first team, competing with players like Alexandre Lacazette, Malick Fofana, and Saïd Benrahma.
