Turkish media outlets are reporting that Galatasaray have set their sights on Nigerian forward Gift Orban as a potential replacement for injured striker Mauro Icardi.
The Argentine could be sidelined for the remainder of the season after suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament during Galatasaray's Europa League victory against Tottenham. Recovery from such injuries typically takes between six to nine months, depending on the severity and rehabilitation progress.
This unfortunate development has necessitated the search for a new striker, leaving the Turkish champions with only Victor Osimhen and Michy Batshuayi as their primary options.
With manager Okan Buruk’s preference for deploying two centre-forwards, reinforcing the attacking department has become a top priority for the club.
Lyon willing to cash in on Orban as Galatasaray show interest
Reports from France suggest that Lyon are prepared to part ways with Orban.
The 22-year-old was brought into the Lyon setup in January 2024 for €14 million following some impressive performances for the Belgian club Gent, where he scored 18 goals in 33 appearances last season.
Signed as the ideal replacement for club legend Alexandre Lacazette, who is entering the twilight of his career, Orban has struggled to meet expectations and has seen his playing time limited following the arrival of Georges Mikautadze.
The young forward has featured in 21 matches for Lyon since joining last season, scoring 5 goals during that time.
The forward recently attracted the ire of Lyon fans following a controversial Instagram comment after the team's 2-2 draw with Auxerre in a Ligue 1 fixture.
Orban congratulated his former teammate, Sinaly Diomandé, for scoring against Lyon, a gesture that sparked significant backlash among supporters.
Lyon are reportedly demanding £10 million for their forward, who has also garnered interest from clubs such as Beşiktaş, Sunderland, Trabzonspor and RC Lens in recent weeks.
