Europe's Top Clubs Circle Six Lyon Gems as Relegation Opens Transfer Window - Chelsea and Liverpool Ready to Pounce
Following prolonged financial difficulties that have been public knowledge, Lyon faced mandatory demotion to Ligue 2 this week due to their inability to resolve concerns raised by French football authorities since November.
Though Lyon has the right to contest this decision and plans to do so, there's clearly significant uncertainty regarding their squad members, several of whom represent valuable commodities that could generate essential revenue for a financially struggling organization. Rayan Cherki's move to Manchester City has already materialized, and he may be the first of several departures.
Below are six Lyon squad members that European clubs should target following their demotion.
Malick Fofana
The most prized possession Lyon currently holds might be winger Malick Fofana. This 20-year-old has been recognized as an emerging talent for some time and started fulfilling that promise during the previous campaign, drawing interest from clubs including Chelsea and Liverpool.
The Belgian international operates primarily on the left flank but demonstrates proficiency with either foot, excelling in individual duels through his dribbling prowess and inventiveness to outmaneuver opponents. Fofana possesses innate talent that would pose a danger at any competitive level, and he's demonstrated promising indicators that his final delivery can achieve elite standards.
Prior to Lyon's demotion, the club reportedly valued him at approximately €50 million (£42.6 million, $57.8 million).
Georges Mikautadze
Acquiring a fresh striker represents a major trend this transfer window. Europe's top clubs are pursuing new goal-scorers, with Arsenal and Manchester United among numerous teams expected to invest substantially in strengthening their offensive capabilities. While Georges Mikautadze may not carry the same prestige as other targets, he could represent exceptional value in terms of cost-effectiveness.
Following his impressive Euro 2024 performances, Mikautadze transitioned from Ligue 2 to Ligue 1 with Lyon last summer, though playing time proved limited behind leading scorer Alexandre Lacazette. Nevertheless, his statistical output matched that of the former Arsenal forward. Despite starting only 13 Ligue 1 matches, Mikautadze concluded the season with 11 goals and six assists, while also contributing nine goals across 11 Europa League appearances.
At 5'9, Mikautadze lacks imposing physical stature but compensates through technical excellence. His precise passing, progressive dribbling, and clinical finishing represent qualities that scouts worldwide seek to identify.
Ernest Nuamah
Ghanaian winger Ernest Nuamah, aged 21, also arrived at Lyon last summer, advancing his career in a €28.5 million ($33.1 million) transfer following an impressive loan period. Fulham nearly secured his signature later in the same window, but negotiations failed due to Nuamah's preference to stay with Lyon. Whether the skillful winger maintains such loyalty to the club remains questionable.
Similar to Fofana, Nuamah represents a direct, threatening wide player who requires further development before reaching elite status, though his potential is evident and a reduced transfer fee might prove irresistible this summer.
A significant concern involves Nuamah's current physical condition. He suffered an ACL rupture in April and faces a lengthy recovery period, meaning potential suitors would assume considerable risk. His valuation will likely reflect this uncertainty.
Lucas Perri
Among several players transferred between Textor's clubs, goalkeeper Lucas Perri arrived from Botafogo in January 2024 without significant attention. Having recently turned 26, Perri wasn't considered an exciting prospect like many recent signings, initially serving as backup goalkeeper.
Perri was promoted to Lyon's first-choice keeper for the 2024-25 season and excelled in the role. The tall Brazilian established himself as one of Ligue 1's most reliable shot-stoppers, recording 10 clean sheets, trailing only Lucas Chevalier's 11 in the league.
Lyon's modest investment in Perri suggests they might accept a similarly reasonable fee. Teams seeking dependable goalkeeping could find few better options than this Brazilian international.
Alejandro Gomes Rodríguez
From Lyon's youth system, few players have attracted as much attention as 17-year-old striker Alejandro Gomes Rodríguez. Venezuelan-born but English-raised, this adaptable youngster showcased his abilities at Southampton and was quickly recognized as among the premier strikers in his age category.
His 2024 transfer to Lyon saw him included in Europa League squads against Manchester United this season, before making his senior debut near the campaign's conclusion. Gomes Rodríguez has been prolific at youth levels for both club and country, scoring consistently for England's junior teams despite eligibility for Venezuela, France, and Portugal.
Premier League clubs consistently seek homegrown talent and should consider testing Lyon's determination regarding Gomes Rodríguez, who might prefer a Ligue 2 season to further his development.
Thiago Almada
When discussing Thiago Almada, it's important to note he's not officially a Lyon player. The Argentine international spent last season's second half on loan from Botafogo, another Textor-owned club, in an arrangement Lyon hoped to make permanent. This scenario appears unlikely now, and Botafogo may need to sell as Almada reportedly wishes to remain in Europe.
The 24-year-old has already built an impressive career. Recognized as a future star since emerging at Vélez Sarsfield, Almada then succeeded at Atlanta United before joining Botafogo in what appeared to be a stepping stone to Europe. During his six-month French stint, the World Cup winner recorded five assists and one goal across 16 appearances.
The complex nature of this arrangement might deter some clubs, but Almada, a compact playmaker with scoring instincts, justifies the additional effort required.