Lyon Parts Ways with Jeffinho in Deal with Botafogo

Olympique Lyonnais has completed a transfer deal on New Year’s Eve, selling Brazilian forward Jeffinho back to Botafogo for €5.3 million. The 25-year-old player, who had been on loan to the Brazilian club since early January 2024, will now make a permanent move.

As part of the agreement, Lyon will retain a 30% interest in any future transfer of Jeffinho. This deal comes at a crucial time for the French club, which is currently facing financial difficulties and transfer restrictions imposed by French football authorities.

Both Botafogo and Lyon are under the ownership of Eagle Football Group, chaired by American businessman John Textor. The transfer appears to be part of Lyon’s strategy to address its financial situation, with the club reporting a substantial debt of €505.1 million in November.

Lyon’s financial woes have led to close monitoring of their wage bill by the National Directorate of Management Control (DNCG). The club risks relegation to Ligue 2 if it fails to improve its financial standing by the end of the current season.

Despite these challenges, Lyon currently holds the fifth position in Ligue 1 and has secured at least a playoff spot in the UEFA Europa League. Jeffinho, who joined Lyon in January 2023 for approximately €10 million, played a significant role in Botafogo’s recent successes during his loan spell, helping the team win their first Brasileiro Serie A title since 1995 and their inaugural Copa Libertadores trophy.