Midfielder Orel Mangala has completed a permanent transfer from Nottingham Forest to Lyon.
The move brings an end to the Belgian’s two-year spell on the banks of the Trent. He joined the Reds from Stuttgart in the summer of 2022 as part of the recruitment drive following promotion to the Premier League.
Mangala’s exit comes as little surprise. He spent the second half of last season on loan at the French side and was always expected to make the switch on a permanent basis. Confirming his departure, a statement from Forest said: “We thank Orel for his contribution during his time at the club and wish him all the best for the future.”
The 26-year-old leaves the City Ground having made 53 appearances in the Garibaldi and with two goals to his name. He played a key part in the Reds securing top-flight survival during his first season at the club and adapted well to English football as time went on.
Forest added: “The Belgian international played an integral role in an impressive turnaround for Lyon last season, helping the French side move out of the relegation zone and finish sixth in Ligue 1, qualifying for next season’s UEFA Europa League. The 26-year-old also established himself in the Belgium international set-up during his time with Forest.”
Mangala is expected to be joined in making the move from the Reds to Lyon by defender Moussa Niakhate. It is anticipated the centre-back will also complete a permanent transfer to the Ligue 1 outfit.
Forest have made overseeing exits as much a priority as strengthening the squad this summer. They have already made inroads on trimming numbers as head coach Nuno Espirito Santo prefers to work with a small group.
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