Lille's €9.5m bid for NEC's rising winger Başar Önal

Lille OSC are on the brink of sealing a €9.5 million transfer for NEC Nijmegen’s 22‑year‑old winger Başar Önal, with potential bonuses included, according to L’Équipe. The French club’s interest follows Önal’s €1 million move from De Graaschap in the summer of 2024.

Önal quickly became a key figure in the Dutch Eredivisie, starting 29 of the 34 matches he featured in last season. He contributed nine goals and nine assists across all competitions, establishing himself as an indispensable part of Dick Shreuder’s side.

His contributions helped NEC secure a third‑place finish in the Eredivisie standings. The winger’s performances attracted attention beyond the Netherlands, prompting Lille’s pursuit.

Önal remains under contract with NEC until 2028, at the end of the 2025‑26 season, providing Lille a window for negotiation. The length of his deal means the French side must meet the €9.5 million valuation to secure his services.

A Turkish Under‑21 international, Önal has earned eight caps and scored once for his country’s youth side. The move to Lille would represent a step up in his young career.

For Lille, the acquisition adds a young, proven winger to bolster their attacking options. NEC would profit from a transfer fee that far exceeds the €1 million they originally paid for the player.