Bundesliga outfit Hoffenheim have bolstered their attacking options by signing Nigerian forward Gift Orban from French side Lyon in a deal worth €9 million ($9.2 million), as confirmed by Lyon on Thursday.
The 22-year-old forward has endured a challenging season at Lyon, where he struggled for game time, falling out of favour after his transfer from Belgian club Gent a year ago.
Despite scoring five goals in 21 appearances, Orban had not featured in Ligue 1 since September.
In an official statement, Lyon expressed gratitude and good wishes for Orban’s future. “We wish Gift well in his new adventure,” the club stated.
Hoffenheim, on the other hand, are thrilled to integrate Orban into their squad.
The club’s sporting director, Andreas Schicker, emphasized the striker’s attributes, noting how his pace and versatility would enhance their attacking lineup.
“In Gift Orban, we have found exactly the fast striker… that we were looking for,” Schicker remarked. “We are convinced that his skills will give our team greater variety in attack.”
Orban’s move to Hoffenheim represents an opportunity for the young Nigerian to revive his career and showcase his talent in one of Europe’s top leagues.
Fans will undoubtedly look forward to seeing how he adapts to life in the Bundesliga and contributes to Hoffenheim’s ambitions.