FC Lorient sign Senegal forward Ibrahima Baldé on loan from Rodez

FC Lorient have completed the signing of Franco-Senegalese striker Ibrahima Baldé on a season-long loan deal with an option to buy.

The 23-year-old forward makes the step up from Ligue 2 to Ligue 1 after an impressive start to the 2026–27 campaign with Rodez, where his prolific form in front of goal quickly attracted attention from clubs in the French top flight.

Baldé has scored five goals in just four Ligue 2 appearances for Rodez this season, a remarkable run that convinced Lorient to move for his signature during the closing stages of the summer transfer window.

The striker will now join Alexandre Dujeux’s attacking set-up as Lorient look to strengthen their squad for the remainder of the campaign.

According to reports, the loan agreement includes an option to buy worth around €3 million, giving Lorient the opportunity to make the move permanent at the end of the 2026–27 season.

Should the club decide to activate the purchase clause, Baldé would then sign a permanent contract and continue his career with Les Merlus beyond the current campaign.

The move represents a significant opportunity for the Senegalese-born forward, who will now have the chance to prove himself at Ligue 1 level after making an explosive start to life in France’s second tier.

His arrival is expected to add further competition and firepower to Lorient’s attacking department, with Baldé hoping to maintain his impressive scoring form following his move to the top flight.

For Rodez, the departure comes after Baldé’s outstanding performances made him one of the early standout players in Ligue 2. His five goals in four matches proved enough to earn him a rapid promotion to the French elite.

Baldé will now be determined to establish himself as an important figure in Dujeux’s squad and make a strong enough impression for Lorient to consider exercising their €3 million option to sign him permanently.