Montpellier have bolstered their forward line with the acquisition of Nigerian striker Victor Orakpo, who arrives on a one-year loan from OGC Nice for the 2024–25 Ligue 2 campaign.
Standing at 1.95 metres, Orakpo brings physical presence and raw potential to the Hérault side.
The 19-year-old, who made four appearances in Ligue 1 last season with Nice, is expected to gain valuable experience under head coach Papus Camara as Montpellier aim for a return to the French top flight.
Victor is a promising forward with strong physical attributes. We believe this loan will be a key step in his development, a club source said, as MHSC officially confirmed the player will wear the number 14 shirt.
A native of Lokoja, Orakpo began drawing attention during his youth spell at Bayern Munich before moving to Nice in January 2024.
His performances in the summer friendlies—scoring against both Rizespor and Ipswich—earned him a brief stint with the first team.
However, with playing time limited in a competitive attacking lineup at the Allianz Riviera, the decision was made to allow the young talent to seek consistent minutes elsewhere.
This move to Montpellier is seen as an opportunity for the powerful centre-forward to expand his skill set in a competitive environment and contribute meaningfully to MHSC’s promotion ambitions.
The club, known for giving a platform to African players, has high hopes for Orakpo to follow in the footsteps of his countrymen who made their mark at the club, including John Utaka, Akor Adams, and Uche Agbo.
Utaka in particular left a lasting impression in Ligue 1, notably during his title-winning campaign with Auxerre in 2012, and Montpellier believe Orakpo could write his own chapter in French football if his development stays on course.
For Orakpo, the loan represents more than just a change of scenery; it’s a vital stage in his career progression.
With strength, height, and a growing tactical awareness, he will now be tested with greater responsibility and expectations in Ligue 2—a challenge both player and club appear eager to embrace.
As Montpellier prepare for a demanding season ahead, all eyes will be on their new Nigerian recruit to see whether he can deliver on the potential that first brought him to the attention of Europe’s elite.
