Tottenham has avoided a problem with ‘Harry Kane replacement’ now at a crisis club
The 21-year-old was reportedly considered a potential replacement for Harry Kane due to his excellent form for Belgian side Gent. Orban scored 20 goals in 22 appearances last season, marking a breakthrough in European football.
However, his form has been underwhelming this season, with just three goals in 17 appearances. After Spurs decided against signing him, Ligue 1 club Lyon took a chance on the young star.
Lyon has faced financial losses largely due to COVID-19 and wider financial issues in French football, prompting a change in ownership from long-serving president Jean-Michel Aulas to US businessman John Textor. Textor expressed ambitions to invest in the club and compete with top teams like PSG, but this has not yet materialized.
Lyon’s reliance on young players has contributed to their struggles, finding themselves at the bottom of the league early in the season but now standing 16th in the 18-team division. Orban joins a squad that has already seen three different managers this season and may need time to adapt.
Despite being recognized as an elite finisher, aspects of Orban’s game, particularly off the ball, need improvement, especially if considered as a replacement for Kane. Meanwhile, Spurs focused on bolstering their attack with signings like Brennan Johnson, Alejo Veliz, and the loan arrival of Timo Werner from RB Leipzig, and also showed interest in James Maddison for added creativity following Leicester’s relegation from the Premier League.
