Lorient consider Montpellier winger Yanis Issoufou after early Ligue 2 impact

Yanis Issoufou, who has French and Nigerien nationality, is being linked with a move from Montpellier to Ligue 1 club FC Lorient.

The 19-year-old left winger has made two appearances for Montpellier in Ligue 2 this season and has scored once. He has played 29% of the team’s available minutes, although he has not started either match.

Issoufou moved into Montpellier’s senior squad from the club’s reserve side in July 2025, having previously progressed through the academy after joining from Nimes’ youth system. He signed with Montpellier’s first team at a time when his market value was recorded at €200,000; it has since risen to €1m.

A transfer to Lorient would represent a move from Ligue 2 to France’s top flight, but the rumour does not include a probability or a reported fee. Issoufou’s current deal with Montpellier runs until 30 June 2028, meaning the club would not be facing an imminent contract expiry if discussions develop.

The teenager’s recent scoring record has placed him in the transfer conversation after only a limited number of senior appearances. For now, Issoufou remains a Montpellier player under contract, with Lorient the club linked to his next move.