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Kicker is currently confirming French media reports concerning a possible transfer of Hoffenheim striker Gift Orban to FC Toulouse. The German publication notes that the Bundesliga professional has been released from his club commitments to negotiate. Kicker nevertheless emphasizes that, even if Orban’s departure is likely, an agreement is still a long way off. Orban may end up moving to another club, potentially a different Ligue 1 side.
Orban only just joined Hoffenheim during the recent January 2025 transfer window. The Nigerian scored four goals in 13 league appearances for head coach Christian Ilzer’s side last spring, but now finds himself lower on the depth chart thanks to personnel changes in the squad over the summer. Tim Lemperle and Fisnik Asllani are now above him on the totem pole, as is young striker Max Moerstedt after a solid training camp.
Hoffenheim may still wish to retain Orban’s services as a recent injury to Czech striker Adam Hlozek might mean that Orban is needed. A stay still seems unlikely. Orban was not in the squad for Hoffenheim’s 0-4 away win over Hansa Rostock in the opening round of the DFB Pokal yesterday. Asllani served as the starting lead striker, scoring a goal and registering an assist in the win. Moerstedt came off the bench to score a brace.
GGFN | Peter Weis
