Lille president Olivier Létang has definitively ruled out the possibility of Benjamin Pavard (29) rejoining the club this summer. Despite earlier speculation linking the former defender with a return to LOSC, Létang confirmed that a deal is not feasible.
The French international has attracted significant interest from elsewhere, with Saudi club Neom SC reportedly offering a highly lucrative contract that would make Pavard one of the highest-paid players in the Saudi Pro League. However, the player has not yet indicated any willingness to move to the Gulf State.
Olympique Marseille has also been mentioned as a potential suitor, though no concrete offer has been made. Marseille`s head coach, Roberto De Zerbi, has publicly emphasized the urgent need for new reinforcements before the transfer window closes.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Létang made it clear that Lille would not be in a position to sign Pavard. “He should arrive on Monday,” Létang joked, before elaborating on the financial hurdles. “I phoned Benjamin, and we talked, but we wouldn`t even be able to cover his transfer fee. There are things that are possible, and other things that are not. It would be great! I told him that I would love for him to come back to us today. But there are economic considerations that are impossible to pull off.”
Pavard remains under contract with Inter Milan until 2028 and may still depart the Serie A club this summer, but a move back to Lille has now been firmly ruled out by the club`s president.