Lyon pursues Stoke City midfielder Bae Jun-ho after 134 Championship appearances
Olympique Lyon has set its sights on Stoke City midfielder Bae Jun-ho after the 22-year-old South Korean accumulated 134 appearances in the Championship. French outlet Foot Mercato reported on July 14 that Lyon is accelerating efforts to sign Bae Jun-ho, who is reportedly positive about the option of playing in France's Ligue 1. The transfer fee and whether an official offer has been made have not been disclosed.
What makes Bae Jun-ho an attractive target for Lyon?
Bae Jun-ho's versatility and experience in the Championship have caught Lyon's attention. The midfielder can play both centrally and on the left flank, offering flexibility in Lyon's system. In his three seasons at Stoke City, Bae Jun-ho recorded 8 goals and 14 assists in 134 official matches, including 3 goals and 3 assists in 45 matches during the 2025-2026 season. His ability to adapt to different managers and tactics has been a key factor in his development.
Why is this transfer significant for Stoke City?
Bae Jun-ho's contract with Stoke City runs until June 2027, but the club may look to cash in on the midfielder this summer to secure the highest transfer fee. With Bae Jun-ho included in the roster for the 2026-2027 season, Stoke City faces a decision on whether to renew his contract or let him go. The potential transfer could provide Stoke City with much-needed funds for further squad improvements.
What challenges await Bae Jun-ho at Lyon?
Bae Jun-ho will face a steep learning curve if he joins Lyon. The pace of Ligue 1 and the Champions League qualifiers is different from the Championship, and he will need to quickly adapt to Lyon's pressing style and defensive duties. Coach Paulo Fonseca frequently changes positions between midfield and the flanks, requiring Bae Jun-ho to be versatile and adaptable. Despite not playing in the 2026 World Cup, Lyon's assessment of Bae Jun-ho is based on his 134 matches at Stoke City, where he won the club's player of the year award in his first season.
