Lille are believed to have identified two attacking targets for the end of this transfer window, below an article explaining why they may or may not sign one of them.
The first is Benfica forward Derley who Lille had reached a provisional agreement with for a loan with an option to buy worth approximately €800k at the end of the season about 10 days ago. However, certain members of the Lille board remain unimpressed to the extent that a deal is most likely off the cards. René Girard very much wants to bring in an attacker and it is thought that at the board might allow him to sign one when the transfer of Pape Souaré to Crystal Palace goes through.
For whatever reason, it seems that Lille might now turn their attention away from Derley. One of the reasons is the quicker than expected return of Ryan Mendes as well as the added security that Divock Origi will remain at the club until the end of the season. Derley has also seemingly reentered into Jorge Jesus’s Benfica plans, playing a part in a league game last weekend. Lille have identified another, backup target in the form of Artjoms Rudnevs, the Hamburg forward, and have already made enquiries for a loan.
It all depends on the Lille board. Girard’s position is clear.
