The competition to sign Olympique Lyonnais` forward Georges Mikautadze (24) has significantly intensified in recent hours. Lyon is under pressure to generate an additional €40 million from player sales before the transfer window closes to fulfill its financial commitments to the DNCG and UEFA. In this context, the Georgian international has emerged as the most probable candidate for departure, partly because other potential sales, such as Malick Fofana, have not attracted concrete offers.
Although Lyon ideally wished to retain Mikautadze, financial imperatives are now forcing his exit. Several Premier League clubs have recently joined the chase, with Aston Villa reportedly having reached an agreement on personal terms with the player. Burnley and Everton have also expressed interest, while Saudi club Neom SC is also keen, according to reports from L’Équipe.
However, Villarreal appears to be the most likely destination for the forward. RMC Sport indicates that a deal with the La Liga club is close to being finalized. This agreement is expected to be worth around €30 million, and Mikautadze himself has already agreed to a long-term contract with the Spanish side.
