Leicester City expressed interest in signing Lois Openda in 2022, a player who was compared to Kylian Mbappé. Although a deal did not materialize at the time, Openda has since developed into one of Europe’s top talents and is now valued at around £75 million.
Introduction
The football transfer market is a dynamic and often unpredictable landscape, where player valuations can fluctuate dramatically based on performance, potential, and market demand. One of the most intriguing stories in recent years has been that of Lois Openda, a Belgian forward who was once compared to the likes of Kylian Mbappé. In 2022, Leicester City showed keen interest in acquiring Openda, but the transfer did not materialize. Fast forward to 2025, and Openda is now on the verge of a £70 million transfer, highlighting his remarkable rise in the footballing world.
The Rise of Lois Openda
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Early Career: Openda began his professional career at Club Brugge, where he showcased his potential as a young striker. His time at Brugge was marked by loan spells that allowed him to gain valuable experience and develop his skills.
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Breakthrough at Vitesse: Openda’s breakthrough came during his loan spell at Vitesse Arnhem in the Eredivisie. He scored 18 goals in 36 appearances, catching the attention of scouts across Europe. His pace, technical ability, and goal-scoring instincts drew comparisons to some of the best forwards in the game, including Kylian Mbappé.
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Move to RC Lens: In 2022, Openda made a significant move to RC Lens in Ligue 1. His performances in France further solidified his reputation as one of the most promising young talents in European football. He quickly became a key player for Lens, contributing with goals and assists while helping the team compete in the upper echelons of the league.
Leicester City’s Interest in 2022
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Strategic Target: Leicester City, looking to bolster their attacking options, identified Openda as a strategic target. The club was in a transitional phase, aiming to rebuild and strengthen their squad after a successful period that included winning the Premier League in 2016.
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Comparisons to Mbappé: The comparisons to Kylian Mbappé were not merely superficial; Openda possessed similar attributes, including blistering pace, dribbling ability, and a keen eye for goal. Leicester City believed that signing Openda could provide them with a dynamic forward capable of making an immediate impact.
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Failed Transfer: Despite their interest, Leicester City was unable to finalize a deal for Openda in 2022. Various factors, including financial constraints and competition from other clubs, played a role in the failed transfer. Openda ultimately remained at Lens, where he continued to develop his game.
Openda’s Development and Current Valuation
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Impressive Performances: Since joining Lens, Openda has consistently delivered impressive performances. His ability to score goals, create chances, and contribute to the team’s overall play has made him a standout player in Ligue 1. His development has not gone unnoticed, as he has attracted interest from several top clubs across Europe.
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International Recognition: Openda’s performances at the club level have also earned him recognition on the international stage. He has been called up to the Belgian national team, where he has the opportunity to showcase his talents alongside some of the best players in the world.
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Current Valuation: As of 2025, Openda’s market value has skyrocketed to around £75 million. This valuation reflects not only his on-field performances but also the demand for young, talented forwards in the current transfer market. Clubs are willing to invest significant sums in players who have the potential to become stars.
The £70 Million Transfer Rumors
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Interest from Top Clubs: As Openda’s stock has risen, so too has the interest from top clubs across Europe. Reports suggest that several Premier League teams, including Leicester City, are once again monitoring his situation as they look to strengthen their attacking options.
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Potential Transfer Dynamics: The potential transfer of Openda for around £70 million would represent a significant investment for any club. The dynamics of the transfer market, including the financial capabilities of clubs and the player’s desire for a new challenge, will play a crucial role in determining whether a move materializes.
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Leicester City’s Position: For Leicester City, the prospect of signing Openda now presents a unique opportunity. With the club looking to return to the Premier League and re-establish themselves as a competitive force, acquiring a player of Openda’s caliber could be a game-changer.
The Impact of Openda’s Transfer
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For Leicester City: If Leicester City successfully secures Openda’s signature, it would signal their intent to compete at the highest level. His arrival could provide the team with a much-needed boost in attack, complementing existing players and enhancing their overall performance.
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For Openda: A transfer to Leicester City would represent a significant step in Openda’s career. It would provide him with the opportunity to play in the Premier League, one of the most competitive leagues in the world, and further develop his skills against top-level opposition.
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Broader Implications: The transfer would also have broader implications for the footballing landscape. It would highlight the increasing trend of clubs investing in young talent, recognizing the potential for future returns on investment. Openda’s move could set a precedent for other clubs looking to follow a similar strategy.
Conclusion
The journey of Lois Openda from a promising young talent to a player on the verge of a £70 million transfer is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and natural ability. Leicester City’s initial interest in 2022 reflects the club’s foresight in identifying potential stars, and the current rumors surrounding Openda’s transfer highlight the ever-evolving nature of the football transfer market.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Openda and the potential for a high-profile move. Whether he ends up at Leicester City or another top club, one thing is certain: Openda’s future in football is bright, and he is poised to make a significant impact in the years to come. The comparisons to Kylian Mbappé may have started as mere speculation, but they now serve as a reminder of the immense potential that Openda possesses as he continues to carve out his own legacy in the world of football.
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