Nigerian international Gift Orban is reportedly closing in on a move to Bundesliga side Hoffenheim from Olympique Lyon, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The 22-year-old has struggled for consistent game time at Lyon since joining from KAA Gent in January.

Orban failed to cement a regular starting spot with just five appearances—three starts—and two goals to his name.

His situation worsened with the arrival of Georges Mikautadze, who pushed Orban further down the pecking order.

Compounding the issue, Lyon’s financial troubles, highlighted by the DNCG’s sanctions, have forced the club to offload players in the upcoming transfer window, making Orban an obvious candidate for departure.

In recent weeks, the striker has been noticeably absent from matchday squads, signaling that his exit was on the horizon.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed Hoffenheim’s interest in a tweet:

“🚨🔵⚪️ Hoffenheim are in advanced talks to sign Gift Orban as a new striker from Olympique Lyon. Negotiations underway. @MatteMoretto 🫱🏻‍🫲🏼.”

Details regarding the nature of the transfer whether it will be a loan or a permanent deal are yet to be disclosed.