Bologna show interest in Franco-Congolese midfielder Orel Mangala

France international of DR Congo descent Orel Mangala has emerged as a transfer target for Serie A side Bologna ahead of the summer window.

The 28-year-old Belgian international could be one of several players allowed to leave Lyon as the French club prepare for another period of squad restructuring, despite securing qualification for the preliminary rounds of the UEFA Champions League.

Lyon’s Head of Recruitment Matthieu Louis-Jean recently acknowledged that the club will still need to generate funds through player sales this summer, although he stressed that the financial situation is more stable compared to last year’s crisis period. Even so, departures are still expected as the club balances competitiveness with financial responsibility.

Mangala is understood to be among the players who could move on. After returning from a loan spell at Everton, the midfielder endured a disrupted campaign at Lyon, making just 14 appearances in all competitions without registering a goal or assist.

His season was heavily affected by injury setbacks, including recovery from a cruciate ligament tear that delayed his involvement at the start of the campaign. Despite these challenges, Mangala gradually worked his way back into contention, starting five of Lyon’s final nine Ligue 1 matches as he regained fitness under Paulo Fonseca.

However, his long-term future at the Groupama Stadium now appears uncertain, with interest beginning to build from abroad.

Bologna, now coached by Domenico Tedesco, are reportedly monitoring the midfielder closely as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of next season. Tedesco’s familiarity with Mangala from his time as Belgium national team coach is believed to be a key factor in the Italian club’s interest.

With Lyon expected to listen to offers for several players this summer, Mangala could become one of the names to watch in the transfer market as both clubs evaluate their midfield options ahead of a busy window.