MY ACCOUNT
Gent striker Gift Orban has been linked with his dream Premier League move after impressing in the Belgian top flight this season.
The 20-year-old has scored nine goals in 10 games since his January switch from Norwegian side Stabeak, while also netting five times in the Europa Conference League.
Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham are all thought to be admirers of the young Nigerian and have sent scouts to watch him.
Ahead of Gent’s clash with Westerlo on Saturday, we turn the spotlight on one of the continent’s brightest starlets.
Breakthrough talent
Since moving to Belgium, Orban has been the Gift that keeps on giving.
He scored a brace on his debut against Westerlo, before a hot streak of eight goals in just four outings in March.
His four goals against Zulte Waregem caught the eye and more plaudits came Orban’s way following a remarkable 205-second hat-trick at Turkish powerhouses Istanbul Basaksehir.
Although yet to make an international appearance, Orban’s profile makes him a perfect fit for the Premier League.
The No20 has a balanced blend of pace and power and is revered for his clinical finishing.
Premier League prospects
While Orban may have plenty of suitors this summer, the diminutive finisher has already ruled out any chance of joining one club.
He said: “The Premier League is my ultimate dream. Manchester United, Liverpool or Manchester City.
“I don’t really like Arsenal that much — it’s like they don’t want to win titles. They play and sell players — that’s it.
“I want to go somewhere where they win prizes.”
High expectations
Orban clearly has set high expectations for his career and has the potential to become a top talent.
Much of his game can be compared to Harry Kane, who is known to drop deep and provide assists in addition to his goals.
His dribbling is another strength and this was evidenced by his winning goal against Anderlecht last March.
The talented African was able to shift the ball away from the defender on the edge of the box before rifling home a right-footed finish to earn his side the victory.
Orban’s composure and ability would be tested in a more competitive league but the signs are encouraging for the clubs who have a keen eye on the striker.
Take the chance
Any deal to bring Orban to the Premier League would likely demand a similar sum to that which Lille paid the Belgian club for Jonathan David in 2020.
The Canadian commanded a fee of around £30million and has since gone on to become one of Ligue 1’s most dangerous goalscorers.
Orban is following a similar path yet could reach even greater heights than David should Chelsea or United decide to pull the trigger on a move.
Gent manager Hein Vanhaezebrouck has already hailed his prized asset, saying: “If you let him start the season, he is a guarantee of 20, 25 goals across all competitions.”
Orban will have to choose his next club carefully if he is to take his game to the next level but the hotshot is certainly not short of options.
