Lyon sign Belgium-Congolese striker Loïs Openda on loan from Juventus

Lyon have completed the signing of Belgium international of Congolese descent, Loïs Openda, on a season-long loan from Juventus, with both clubs confirming the deal.

The 26-year-old returns to Ligue 1, where he previously enjoyed a prolific spell with RC Lens before securing a big-money move to RB Leipzig in 2023.

Fresh start after difficult Juventus spell

Openda joined Juventus last summer on an initial loan deal that included a €42 million obligation to buy, which became permanent on 1 July.

However, the striker struggled to make an impact in Turin, scoring just two goals in all competitions during the 2025-26 campaign.

His disappointing form also cost him a place in Rudi Garcia’s Belgium squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Return to familiar surroundings

The Belgian forward made his name in French football during an outstanding season with Lens, scoring 21 Ligue 1 goals to help establish himself as one of the league’s most dangerous attackers.

Those performances earned him a €50 million transfer to RB Leipzig, although he reportedly sought a move away from the Bundesliga after the German club failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League.

Now back in France, Openda will be hoping to rediscover the form that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards.

Lyon strengthen attacking options

Lyon moved for Openda after reshaping their attacking department during the summer transfer window.

The French club were searching for an experienced centre-forward following the departure of Endrick, who returned to parent club Real Madrid after his loan spell, while Roman Yaremchuk also left after Lyon opted not to activate the option to make his move permanent.

Openda’s arrival gives Lyon an established goalscorer as they prepare for the new Ligue 1 season.