In a surprising gesture of goodwill, Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly offered to pay the remainder of Bradley Barcola’s €50 million transfer fee up front to help former club Lyon amid their current financial turmoil. But due to financial structuring from last year, the move will have no direct impact on Lyon’s relegation predicament.
⚠️ What Happened?
According to LiveFoot, PSG are ready to settle the entire remaining amount of Barcola’s transfer fee, originally agreed in 2023. While the intention is to help OL (Olympique Lyonnais) during their ongoing financial crisis, Lyon already sold the payment rights to a bank shortly after the transfer.
In August 2023, Lyon received €45 million upfront from a financial institution, using the anticipated payments to improve liquidity and comply with French football’s financial watchdog, the DNCG (Direction Nationale du Contrôle de Gestion).
💥 The Bigger Picture: Lyon’s Relegation to Ligue 2
So while PSG’s gesture looks generous on the surface, it won’t help Lyon’s financial health or overturn the DNCG’s decision.
📉 Did You Know?
Lyon’s shocking relegation came as a result of failing to present satisfactory financial guarantees for the upcoming season. The fallout has already begun, with club owner John Textor stepping down from all executive roles, signaling a possible major shift in management.
🔮 What’s Next for Lyon?
The club is still negotiating with the DNCG in hopes of reversing their relegation through appeals or fresh financial guarantees. Unless they secure a revised plan or direct cash injection, Lyon are set to play in Ligue 2 next season —a huge blow for one of France’s most historic clubs.
Meanwhile, PSG are under no obligation to adjust the terms of Barcola’s transfer, as they’ve already met all contract conditions.