Belgian striker Loïs Openda, 26, is poised to return to French football after a disappointing spell in Italy, with a loan move to Olympique Lyonnais from Juventus expected to be completed within hours.
According to Sky Sport, the forward will join Les Gones on a temporary basis with an option to make the transfer permanent. The arrangement marks a swift exit from Turin for a player who arrived only last summer amid considerable expectation following his departure from the Bundesliga.
Struggles in Serie A
Juventus invested nearly €43 million to sign Openda from RB Leipzig ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, but the forward found life in Serie A difficult. He managed just two goals in 34 appearances across all competitions, a return that failed to justify his significant price tag or establish him in the starting eleven.
The Belgium international’s lack of form also carried international consequences. He was notably absent from Rudi Garcia’s squad for the 2026 World Cup earlier this summer, excluded from the tournament despite having earned 33 caps and scored three goals for the Red Devils. The striker now faces a considerable battle to reclaim his place in the national team setup.
Previous Ligue 1 success
Openda’s move to Lyon offers a return to familiar territory where he previously thrived. During the 2022-23 season with RC Lens, he established himself as one of the division’s most dangerous attackers, netting 21 times and providing four assists in 42 appearances.
That prolific campaign prompted RB Leipzig to secure his services, setting the stage for his eventual transfer to Juventus. Now, the Belgian hopes to rediscover his scoring touch in a league where he has proven pedigree.
Deal structure and next steps
The loan arrangement provides Lyon with much-needed attacking reinforcements without immediate financial commitment, while allowing Juventus to cut their losses on a player who never adapted to the tactical rigours of Italian football. The option to buy offers flexibility for the French club should Openda rediscover his best form.
Official confirmation of the transfer is anticipated shortly, with medical examinations and administrative formalities expected to be concluded in the coming hours. The move represents a fresh start for a player who desperately needs to revive his career trajectory after a forgettable 12 months in Turin.