Olympique Lyonnais are closing in on the signing of Stoke City midfielder Jun-ho Bae after the 22-year-old agreed to join the French club. The South Korea international, who was called up by his country for the FIFA World Cup, has accepted the move, though negotiations between the two clubs remain ongoing.
Bae offers versatility that appeals to Lyon’s recruitment strategy. Comfortable in central midfield or operating from the left wing, the 22-year-old provides tactical flexibility as the club reshapes its squad ahead of the new campaign.
Lyon’s squad overhaul
The Ligue 1 side have been one of France’s most active clubs in the transfer market, having already secured five new arrivals. Mads Bidstrup, Julien Duranville, Noham Kamara, Mohamed Ouédraogo and Kail Boudache have all completed moves to Groupama Stadium as Lyon build depth across multiple positions.
However, the influx of new faces has been matched by efforts to streamline the existing squad. Portugal winger Afonso Moreira has already departed for a significant fee, and further exits are anticipated in midfield. Both Tanner Tessmann and Orel Mangala have been linked with moves away, prompting Lyon to move proactively for reinforcements before those potential departures are finalised.
Transfer progress
While Bae has agreed personal terms with Lyon, the transfer is not yet complete. Talks between Stoke City and the French club are currently underway to settle the remaining details of the agreement, including the fee and structure of the deal.
The potential switch would represent a significant step in Bae’s career, offering the midfielder the opportunity to test himself in Ligue 1. Lyon will hope to complete the formalities quickly to allow Bae to integrate into their pre-season preparations ahead of the domestic season.