Olympique Lyonnais ideally wishes to retain their key forward, Georges Mikautadze (24). However, with the transfer deadline fast approaching, the club is under significant pressure to generate nearly €40 million from player sales. This is crucial to meet the stringent financial commitments made to the DNCG (France`s financial watchdog) and UEFA.
This financial imperative means that Mikautadze, much like Malick Fofana earlier, could be sold if a compelling offer materializes and the player agrees to the move. Fofana notably turned down a strong bid from Everton, choosing not to make the switch to Merseyside.
Mikautadze is now considered the prime candidate for a departure. According to reports from L’Équipe, Lyon is strategically using the UEFA Champions League draw as an opportunity to engage in discussions with Villarreal, a club that has expressed clear interest in the Georgian striker. A preliminary meeting between representatives of both clubs is anticipated to take place in Monaco within the coming hours.
Lyon has reportedly set a transfer fee of €35 million for Mikautadze. Villarreal is not alone in their pursuit; Premier League side Burnley has also actively entered the race for the talented centre-forward. L’Équipe suggests that Burnley possesses the financial capability to meet Lyon`s asking price. Furthermore, an undisclosed Saudi Arabian club is also reportedly interested in securing Mikautadze`s services, adding another dimension to the transfer saga.
