Orel Mangala, who is currently under contract with Olympique Lyon, is not seen as a key player by the club anymore. Last season, he was loaned to Everton, where he had significant playing time until a severe knee injury sidelined him at the end of January. Despite this setback, Italian media have linked him to a possible transfer. Fiorentina, known for its interest in various players, reportedly has the Belgian midfielder on its shortlist. A move seems more feasible during the winter transfer window, as Mangala is still in recovery and expected to be unavailable for several months. He aims to be fit by December to boost his chances of being selected for the Belgian national team for the 2026 World Cup.

In an interview with TMW, Giovanni Bia discussed the unsuccessful transfer operation between Lyon and Fiorentina for Mangala. Fiorentina had shown significant interest in the midfielder in the final days of the transfer market, but he ultimately joined Everton. Bia stated that he had organized the operation with Pradè and Goretti. Lyon had initially requested a loan with an option to buy, with total figures between 25-30 million. Mangala was close to moving to Florence when the deal collapsed.

Orel Mangala seemed to be on his way to English club Everton, but Italian club Fiorentina showed interest and took the lead for a while. However, Mangala is now set to join Everton instead.

Fiorentina saw an opportunity to hijack the transfer and seems increasingly likely to succeed in their attempt. According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Mangala himself has now indicated that he prefers a transfer to Florence. Fiorentina is aiming for a loan with a purchase option, a similar formula to that offered by Everton.