Togolese international Karim Dermane has officially joined FC Lorient on a one-year loan deal from Belgian side Lommel SK, in a move announced on 9 August 2025.
The 21-year-old midfielder becomes the latest African talent to make the leap to one of Europe’s top five leagues, as he looks to cement his place in Ligue 1.
Dermane’s arrival comes just days before the start of the 2025–26 season, offering both the player and Lorient a timely boost. The French side, recently promoted from Ligue 2, is preparing for a crucial campaign, and sees Dermane as a key addition to its midfield unit.
Born in Togo’s capital Lomé, Dermane’s footballing journey began at the esteemed Planète Foot Academy. His talent was quickly recognised, and he moved to Ghana to continue his development with WAFA SC.
In 2021, he made the jump to Europe, signing with Dutch giants Feyenoord, where he initially featured for their U21 squad. Two years later, he secured a permanent transfer to Lommel SK in Belgium, where he remains under contract until 2028.
Last season, the dynamic midfielder gained further experience during a loan spell at Kortrijk, where he made 15 appearances, scoring once and providing an assist.
His performances in Belgium solidified his reputation as a versatile box-to-box player, known for his stamina, passing range, and tactical intelligence.
Now, the move to Lorient represents a pivotal step in his young career.
“Playing in Ligue 1 is a major source of pride,” Dermane said following the announcement. “I want to show what I’m capable of and honour the faith Lorient has placed in me.”
This is not Dermane’s first brush with top-flight interest. In the summer of 2024, a potential move to Premier League champions Manchester City was reportedly close, but ultimately fell through due to administrative complications. That setback has only sharpened his determination to succeed at the highest level.
At Lorient, Dermane is expected to slot into the heart of the midfield in manager Régis Le Bris’ preferred 4-3-3 formation. The club sees him as a player in the mould of Ghanaian international Thomas Partey, with a similar blend of physicality and composure.
Dermane has been assigned the number 29 shirt and could make his debut on 17 August, when Lorient host Le Havre in their season opener.
On the international stage, Dermane has already become a central figure for Togo. Since making his debut for the national team, the midfielder has earned 21 caps and scored three goals.
One of those came in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against the Democratic Republic of Congo. He remains a vital part of head coach Daré Nibombé’s plans ahead of the 2025 AFCON and the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
His presence in Ligue 1 is a significant boost not only for his personal development but also for Togolese football, which continues to nurture top-level talent.
A successful campaign in France could rekindle interest from major European clubs, including PSV Eindhoven and Manchester City, both of whom have been monitoring his progress.
For now, however, Karim Dermane’s focus is firmly on making an immediate impact in Brittany—representing his country with pride and proving his worth in one of the continent’s most competitive leagues.
