Issa Kaboré has made it clear he is not interested in joining Olympique Lyonnais on loan, despite the French club expressing interest in securing his services as part of a proposed transfer deal involving Rayan Cherki.
The 24-year-old Burkina Faso international, currently on the books at Manchester City, has endured a nomadic few seasons, spending much of his time out on loan. Since signing for the Premier League champions, Kaboré has yet to make a senior appearance for City, instead accumulating experience through successive loan spells.
Between 2021 and 2023, the right-back featured for Troyes and Olympique de Marseille in Ligue 1, giving him familiarity with the French top flight.
More recently, he spent time with Luton Town, Benfica, and, in the latter half of the 2024–2025 campaign, Werder Bremen — his sixth loan spell since arriving in Manchester.
As part of negotiations surrounding Rayan Cherki’s potential move to the Etihad, Manchester City reportedly offered to send a player to Lyon in return. Kaboré quickly emerged as a leading candidate, given his prior Ligue 1 experience and City’s willingness to facilitate another temporary move.
However, sources close to the player have told Africa Top Sports that Kaboré has no intention of accepting another loan arrangement.
The 2021 Africa Cup of Nations Best Young Player is said to be seeking a permanent exit from City, with the aim of finding stability and committing to a long-term project where he can fully integrate and develop.
Kaboré’s stance puts Manchester City in a delicate position. The club, while open to loaning him out once again, now faces the possibility of having to negotiate a permanent transfer or risk keeping a player who is no longer aligned with their plans.
His market valuation, previously estimated at €8 million, has reportedly dropped to €4 million, potentially making him a more accessible target for clubs seeking defensive reinforcements.
Despite his lack of continuity in recent years, Kaboré’s stock remains relatively strong. His speed, stamina, and experience across various European leagues make him an appealing option for clubs in need of an attacking right-back.
However, it is increasingly evident that the player is prioritising stability over further short-term moves.
Under contract with Manchester City until June 2027, Kaboré finds himself at a crossroads. A permanent transfer could allow him to finally settle and carve out a consistent role at club level, something that has eluded him since leaving Rahimo FC in Burkina Faso.
As the summer transfer window approaches, both Manchester City and interested clubs will need to consider the defender’s preferences carefully.
While Lyon may no longer be an option due to Kaboré’s reluctance, other teams seeking long-term reinforcements at full-back could emerge as viable destinations.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Kaboré’s next move — one that may finally provide the stability and growth he has long sought.
