Lyon have won the race to sign sought-after ESTAC Troyes forward Mama Baldé (27), according to a report this Tuesday from L’Equipe. The outlet understands that the Guinea-Bissau international will undergo his medical on Wednesday. Telefoot broke the news on Sunday that Les Gones had entered the race to sign Baldé, rivalling Premier League side Sheffield United and an unnamed Ligue 1 side. The 27-year-old effectively agreed to join Laurent Blanc’s side with a view to compete with Alexandre Lacazette for the centre-forward role. The former Arsenal man will miss the next two games through suspension.
Despite a contract that runs until 2025, Baldé was expected to leave the Ligue 2 side months after their relegation to the second-tier. The striker was arguably Troyes’ best player last season, logging 12 goals and four assists. Lyon and the City Football Group-owned club have reportedly shaken hands over a season-long loan including a €8m permanent option for Baldé. The plane carrying the striker from Troyes to Lyon landed at around 9:20pm.
L’Equipe adds that Lyon will now try to wrap up the arrival of a defensive midfielder with Real Betis’ Guido Rodriguez and AC Milan’s Rade Krunic touted as priority targets.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
