Olympique Lyonnais has successfully completed the signing of Algerian winger Saïd Benrahma from West Ham United on Friday, following a delay due to administrative reasons that almost caused the deal to fall through at the end of the transfer window.
Lyon managed to file a successful appeal with FIFA, ensuring that all necessary documentation was accepted. Benrahma joins Lyon on a loan deal valued at £5.1 million ($6.4 million) until the end of June, with an option for Lyon to make the transfer permanent for £12.3 million ($15.5 million) plus a 10% sell-on clause for any future sale. The transfer was validated by both the French and English football associations.
This news is particularly welcome for Lyon, which is currently struggling in the French league, and also provides a silver lining for Real Betis, which experienced its own frustrations with West Ham over the failed transfer of midfielder Pablo Fornals. Betis, however, succeeded in securing Fornals on a long-term deal until 2029 on Friday.
Saïd Benrahma’s journey from Brentford to West Ham United highlights his significant career moves. Initially, Benrahma made an impact at Brentford after joining the Championship club on July 6, 2018, for an undisclosed fee, reportedly around £2.7 million. His notable performances at Brentford, including his first goal in an EFL Cup victory and his contributions that led to several award nominations, paved the way for his next career chapter.
On October 16, 2020, Benrahma transitioned to West Ham United on a season-long loan, which became a permanent transfer on January 29, 2021. The deal, valued at £25 million plus £5 million in add-ons, positioned Benrahma among West Ham’s most expensive signings at the time. Since joining West Ham in 2020, the 28-year-old has made 146 appearances, scoring 24 goals.
Currently, Lyon, standing 16th in the French league and Benrahma’s latest club, is gearing up to face Marseille in their upcoming game. Benrahma’s career trajectory, marked by his significant contributions and transfers, reflects his evolving role in European football.
