Gift Orban is edging closer to leaving Bundesliga side Hoffenheim, with a return to France increasingly on the cards. Toulouse are now the frontrunners in the race to sign the prolific Nigerian striker, with a loan deal forming a plausible route back to Ligue 1, Footy-Africa can exclusively confirm.
The 23-year-old forward, who arrived at Hoffenheim in January 2025, has seen limited opportunities, with just 13 appearances across all competitions, contributing four goals.
An exclusive source at Aneke Player Management Group, Orban’s representatives, has confirmed to Footy-Africa the player’s desire to exit Hoffenheim before the end of the ongoing transfer window.
“Gift Orban is an ambitious young striker who wants to play regularly and continue his development, something he hasn’t got since joining them earlier this year. He will leave the club, that’s for sure. France has always brought out the best in him, and Toulouse’s interest is very serious, but other options are being explored as well,” the source exclusively told Footy-Africa.
Gift Orban to return to Ligue 1 after disappointing Hoffenheim spell
Before his stint in Germany, Orban had a stint at Lyon in France (2023–2025), where he made 21 appearances across all competitions, scoring five goals.
Earlier in his career, Orban showcased his goal-scoring prowess at Gent, with a total of 52 appearances and 32 goals in league, Cup, and European competitions. His journey began at Stabæk in Norway, where he recorded 24 games and 19 goals in the 2021/22 season.
