The LOSC won its Ligue 1 match against AS Monaco with a goal at the end of Olivier Giroud’s match. The absence of Edon Zhegrova on the Lille team, due to reactivated muscle fatigue, was explained by coach Bruno Genesio, who said he did not want to take any risks with the young player. Zhegrova, targeted by other clubs such as OM and Juventus, could eventually remain at LOSC, a position regularly defended by President Olivier Létang. At the same time, AS Monaco is looking for important reinforcements, with an interest for a player estimated at 40 million euros, following a trend already observed with the arrival of Eliese Ben Seghiir.
A rumor of transfer concerning Benjamin Pavard, a former LOSC player, surfaced, sparking enthusiasm in Lille. However, President Olivier Létang quickly put an end to these speculations, confirming that a return from Pavard was economically inviable. Létang pointed out that the total cost of the operation, including the player’s annual transfer and salary, would amount to nearly 40 million euros, an amount out of reach for the LOSC, which favours rigorous financial management since the arrival of Merlyn Partners.
Olivier Létang’s statements illustrate the current financial limitations of the LOSC. The club’s self-financing policy does not allow excessive spending, and the investment fund does not foresee significant new funding. Although Benjamin Pavard seemed open to a return, the reality of the market makes this option unrealizable. The pond thus recalled that some things are simply not possible, stressing the need for the LOSC to remain pragmatic and focus on realistic recruitment strategies.