Juventus forward Loïs Openda has indicated willingness to join Olympique Lyonnais this summer, according to Foot Mercato. The Belgian striker, who previously enjoyed a prolific spell with RC Lens in Ligue 1, has reportedly sent positive signals to the French club regarding a potential return to the division.
A move to Lyon would allow the 26-year-old to compete in the Champions League. The Ligue 1 side are scheduled to face Sparta Prague in the third qualifying round in early August, offering Openda immediate European football should the transfer materialise before those fixtures.
However, Juventus hold different preferences for the player’s future. The Turin club are reportedly more eager to send Openda to the Premier League, where recently promoted Coventry City have expressed particular interest in securing his services.
The situation presents a challenging negotiation for Lyon’s management. While Openda’s familiarity with French football and the prospect of Champions League participation make the Rhône-based club an attractive destination, Juventus are prioritising a move to England. The Italian club hope to offload the striker’s substantial salary, which remains on their books until 2030 due to his long-term contract.
RC Lens had also hoped to re-sign their former player, but that prospect has proven difficult to realise. Instead, Lyon have emerged as the favoured French option from the player’s perspective.
The striker’s departure from Turin appears increasingly likely following a difficult campaign. He managed just two goals in 34 matches last season, a sharp decline from the form that prompted Juventus to recruit him.
Coventry City’s interest offers an alternative path, though the Championship play-off winners cannot provide the European platform available at Lyon. The coming weeks will determine whether Juventus accommodate Openda’s apparent preference for the Ligue 1 club or insist on a Premier League sale to satisfy their financial objectives.
No agreement has been finalised with either club.