PSG helps Lyon avoid relegation by settling Bradley Barcola transfer fee — reports

In a surprising turn of events that underscores the complex financial landscape of French football, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has reportedly come to the aid of Olympique Lyonnais by making an early payment for the transfer of Bradley Barcola. This comes at a critical time for Lyon, which is battling severe financial difficulties and provisionally relegated from Ligue 1.

Barcola, the promising young forward, initially moved from Lyon to PSG in August 2023 for a reported fee of €45 million, with an additional €5 million in bonuses. The original agreement stipulated that this fee would be paid in installments over several years. However, with Lyon facing an imminent review by the DNCG (French football’s financial watchdog) and the very real threat of administrative relegation to Ligue 2 due to mounting debts (reportedly around €50 million), PSG has stepped in to provide a crucial cash injection.

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According to reports from France Info and RMC Sport, PSG has advanced the remaining portion of Barcola’s transfer fee, providing Lyon with much-needed liquidity. This move is a strategic one, aimed at shoring up Lyon’s financial position ahead of its appeal against the DNCG’s decision.

While the two clubs have had a somewhat frosty relationship in the past, this act of financial assistance highlights a potential shift in dynamics and a broader interest in maintaining stability within French football. The relegation of a club of Lyon’s stature would undoubtedly have significant negative repercussions for the entire league.

Despite PSG’s timely intervention, it’s important to note that the early payment for Barcola may only be a temporary reprieve for Lyon. While it addresses immediate cash flow issues, it doesn’t necessarily resolve the underlying structural debt or guarantee long-term financial stability, which are key requirements for the DNCG.