Juventus Temporarily Unable to Shift Openda Despite Willing Bidders in Ligue 1

FolioPitch.com – 22 July 2026 | Juventus temporarily unable to shift Openda despite willing bidders in Ligue 1, leaving the Belgian striker in a state of limbo as the new season approaches. According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Bianconeri are keen to offload the 26-year-old, who is not part of Luciano Spalletti‘s plans for the 2026-27 campaign. However, a shortage of senior centre-forwards at the club has forced a temporary halt on any potential transfer.

The situation arises after Dusan Vlahovic’s departure at the end of his contract on June 30, leaving Juventus with limited options up front. Currently, the only senior strikers available are Lois Openda, Jonathan David, Arkadiusz Milik, and newly signed Jeff Ekhator. However, neither Milik nor Openda feature in Spalletti’s long-term vision, and both are expected to be moved on. Yet, with Ekhator not yet fully fit and David still on holiday after representing Canada at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the club finds itself short of attacking firepower ahead of a pre-season friendly against Standard Liege on July 25.

Juventus temporarily unable to shift Openda despite willing bidders in Ligue 1 — a predicament that has attracted interest from several French clubs. Monaco, Rennes, and Coventry City were initially mentioned as potential destinations, but La Gazzetta dello Sport now suggests that Lyon and Lens are the most likely suitors. The preferred deal structure would be a loan with an option to buy, which would help Juventus reduce their wage bill for the upcoming season.

Despite the clear desire to sell, the club cannot afford to let Openda leave until at least a week after the pre-season friendly, as they need his presence for the match. This delay frustrates both the player and the interested parties, who are eager to secure his services. Juventus temporarily unable to shift Openda despite willing bidders in Ligue 1 highlights the delicate balancing act between squad planning and immediate needs.

The Belgian international arrived in Turin with high expectations but struggled to make an impact during the 2025-26 Serie A campaign. His underwhelming performances have not deterred clubs like Lyon and Lens, who see potential in a change of scenery. For Juventus, moving Openda is part of a broader squad rebuild under Spalletti, who is focusing on younger talents like David and Ekhator.

As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether Juventus can resolve this temporary impasse. The club is reportedly working behind the scenes to facilitate Openda’s exit as soon as possible, but for now, they must wait. Juventus temporarily unable to shift Openda despite willing bidders in Ligue 1 underscores the complexities of the transfer market, where timing and squad depth can clash with strategic decisions.

In conclusion, the Bianconeri’s striker situation remains fluid. While Openda’s departure seems inevitable, the immediate need for a centre-forward for the upcoming friendly means his transfer is on hold. Lyon and Lens are ready to pounce, but they will have to be patient. Juventus temporarily unable to shift Openda despite willing bidders in Ligue 1 is a story that will likely resolve within the next week, as the club balances its competitive and financial objectives.