Juventus forward Lois Openda is the subject of interest from several clubs across Europe, according to reports from Italy. The Belgian has struggled to make an impact since joining the Turin club, failing to score in nearly 200 days, with his last goal coming against Roma in December.
Openda arrived at Juventus with high expectations following a successful spell at Lens in Ligue 1, where he scored 21 goals in 42 matches during the 2022-23 season. However, he has been unable to replicate that form in Italy, managing just two goals in 37 appearances for Juventus. His struggles have been attributed to a combination of factors, including difficulties adapting to the team’s tactics under both Massimiliano Allegri and Igor Tudor, as well as reported issues with his mentality and integration.
With Juventus’s new sporting director Giovanni Carnevali looking to reshape the squad, Openda is considered a player who could be moved on this summer. According to the report, a permanent sale is deemed unlikely due to the significant residual value remaining on his transfer fee – a reported €44 million – and his substantial €4 million annual salary. A loan deal, potentially including a conditional option or obligation to buy, is therefore the most probable outcome.
Four clubs have reportedly made initial inquiries about Openda’s availability. Three of those are from Ligue 1: Lens, who are keen to re-sign their former star; Lyon, managed by Paulo Fonseca, where Openda could link up with fellow Belgians Mangala and Fofana; and Rennes, who will compete in the Europa League next season. Additionally, newly promoted Premier League side Coventry City have also expressed interest in the 24-year-old. Openda has been working to improve his fitness during the off-season at the Browns Sport Resort in Portugal, demonstrating a willingness to fight for his career.
