Lyon have completed the signing of Belgian striker Loïs Openda on a season-long loan from Juventus, both clubs have confirmed. The deal includes a €3.5 million loan fee but contains no option to buy, meaning the 26-year-old will return to Turin when the agreement expires in June 2027.
Juventus struggles
Openda arrives in France seeking to revive his career after a frustrating stint in Serie A. Juventus triggered a €42.75 million obligation to purchase the forward on 1 July, just twelve months after he initially joined from RB Leipzig on a temporary deal worth €3.25 million. However, he struggled to impress in Turin, managing just two goals in 34 competitive appearances and starting only nine matches. His opportunities dwindled further towards the end of last season, with the Belgium international making just one brief substitute appearance in the final two months.
The disappointing return prompted Juventus to sanction a swift departure despite having only recently made his transfer permanent. The Italian club will hope that regular football in France helps restore Openda’s market value ahead of a potential sale next summer.
Return to familiar territory
The move represents a homecoming of sorts for Openda, who previously enjoyed a prolific spell with RC Lens during the 2022-23 campaign, scoring 21 Ligue 1 goals. That outstanding form persuaded RB Leipzig to invest €50 million in his services, though he requested a transfer last summer after the German club failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
Lyon’s attacking reshuffle
Lyon moved to secure Openda’s signature following a double departure from their forward line. Brazilian prospect Endrick has returned to parent club Real Madrid after his loan expired, while Ukraine international Roman Yaremchuk left after the French side opted not to trigger the purchase clause in his agreement. The Belgian’s arrival provides manager Rudi Garcia with a proven centre-forward as the club looks to climb the division.
The transfer also carries significance for Openda’s international ambitions, with the striker recently omitted from Belgium’s squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. A return to the form he showed at Lens would strengthen his case for recall to the national team whilst helping Lyon’s attacking cause.