Twenty-one-year-old Matthieu Patouillet is expected to encounter significantly limited playing opportunities at Olympique Lyonnais this season. The club has recently bolstered its goalkeeping ranks with the arrival of Dominik Greif from Mallorca, and the seasoned Rémy Descamps has consistently been the first-choice goalkeeper for OL in Ligue 1.
Patouillet, who progressed through Lyon`s highly-regarded academy system, is unlikely to secure a starting role. Furthermore, with only one year left on his current contract, he has reportedly declined an extension. This decision, as per a report from L’Équipe, strongly suggests his imminent departure from the French outfit.
Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al-Hilal has expressed keen interest in Patouillet, aiming to bring him in as a backup for their prominent goalkeeper, Bono. A crucial aspect of this potential transfer is the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) during the middle of the season, which will see Bono join the Moroccan national team. During this period, Patouillet is anticipated to step into the starting position for Al-Hilal.
According to L’Équipe, Olympique Lyonnais has accepted an offer of €350,000 for their academy graduate. In addition, Lyon will retain a 20% sell-on clause, ensuring they receive a portion of any future transfer fee for the player. While the personal terms between Patouillet and Al-Hilal are still undergoing finalization, an agreement is widely expected to be reached in the coming days.
