Lyon receive surprise offer for Georges Mikautadze as Everton join the race | OneFootball

It is no secret that Olympique Lyonnais are open to selling players this January. Handed a provisional relegation to Ligue 2 by the DNCG, the club must satisfy authorities by raising funds in the upcoming transfer window in order to retain their top-flight status.

Some high-profile players could leave. The likes of Rayan Cherki and Malick Fofana could be sold if a significant offer arrives, whilst Lyon are also more actively looking to offload the likes of Saïd Benrahma, Maxence Caqueret, and Gift Orban. The latter is the subject of interest from Hoffenheim with Fabrizio Romano reporting that a deal is close.

One player that OL would not have thought they would be selling in January is Georges Mikautadze (22). The Georgia international joined in the summer from FC Metz, and whilst he struggled in the opening weeks, he is now featuring more regularly. He currently has seven goals in 21 appearances in all competitions, including two goals in the UEFA Europa League.

Everton make contact with Mikautadze’s entourage

Romano understands that Turkish side Galatasaray have now submitted an offer worth €17m plus add-ons. It isn’t sufficient to convince Lyon to part ways with their striker, who is the apparent successor to Alexandre Lacazette, who is expected to depart his boyhood club upon the expiry of his contract at the end of the season.

However, interest in Mikautadze is mounting. Two more clubs have joined the race, as per Foot Mercato: Everton and Bayer Leverkusen. The two clubs have even sounded out the player’s entourage regarding their interest in a move. However, Mikautadze and Lyon will have to be convinced with the striker keen to make it at OL.Les Gones are also keen to retain their forward, however, given their situation, a significant offer could turn their heads.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle