Olympique Lyonnais have reached an agreement with 17-year-old midfielder Cluver Sambi Mbungu for a three-year professional contract, according to L’Équipe. Mbungu is expected to undergo a medical this week before officially joining Lyon until 2029.
The move sees the promising talent choose Lyon over a number of other clubs, including domestic rivals Paris Saint-Germain. Mbungu impressed last season playing for the reserve team of Stade Malherbe Caen in National 3, making 19 appearances and scoring three goals. Caen reportedly attempted to retain the player, but were ultimately unsuccessful.
Mbungu, who was born in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, moved to France at the age of two and was identified by Caen while playing for SPN Vernon in Eure. His performances for Caen’s reserves attracted attention from several prominent European clubs, with Bundesliga sides RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund also registering interest, as reported by L’Équipe.
Lyon have been active in the transfer window already, having secured the signings of Boudache, Bidstrup, Duranville, and Ouédraogo. All four players featured in a friendly match against Mâcon on Wednesday, which Lyon won 5-2. The acquisition of Mbungu continues Lyon’s strategy of investing in young talent and building for the future. This signing adds further depth to Lyon’s midfield options and provides a long-term prospect for the club.
The competition for Mbungu’s signature highlights his potential, and Lyon will be hoping he can develop into a key player in the coming years. Securing his commitment represents a significant coup for the club, particularly given the interest from larger European sides.
