Lille have completed the signing of Turkish winger Basar Önal from Eredivisie side NEC Nijmegen for a fee of €9.5 million, with a further €2.5 million in potential bonuses, the club confirmed on Monday. Önal has signed a four-year contract with Lille, securing his future with the French club until 2028.
The 22-year-old predominantly plays as a right-winger but has frequently featured on the left side for NEC. Last season, Önal was a key contributor to Nijmegen’s third-place finish in the Eredivisie, scoring seven goals and providing eight assists. NEC initially acquired Önal from De Graafschap for a reported €1 million in the summer of 2024.
Lille president Olivier Létang expressed his satisfaction with the acquisition, stating that Önal “presents a profile capable of bringing complementary qualities to the team, in a season that will be dense.” This suggests the club anticipates a demanding campaign with involvement in multiple competitions. Lille finished fourth in Ligue 1 last season, securing a spot in the Europa League.
This transfer represents a significant step up for Önal, moving him from the Dutch top flight to a competitive Ligue 1 side with European ambitions. He will be looking to establish himself as a regular starter and further develop his game under Lille’s coaching staff. The move provides Lille with additional attacking options and tactical flexibility as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Lille also announced the signing of Swiss left-back Loun Srdanovic on Monday, further bolstering their squad ahead of the new campaign. The club are reportedly still pursuing Feyenoord midfielder Gjivai Zechiël, indicating their continued ambition in the transfer market. Securing Zechiël would further strengthen Lille’s midfield options.
