What Are the Five Best Signings of the 2026–27 Ligue 1 Season?
From Maghnes Akliouche’s move to Paris Saint-Germain to Loïs Openda’s return to France with Olympique Lyonnais, several confirmed deals could reshape the new Ligue 1 season.
The Ligue 1 transfer window remains open until September 1, but several major moves have already been completed. Paris Saint-Germain, AS Monaco, Olympique Lyonnais, Olympique de Marseille and Stade Rennais have all strengthened their squads with players capable of making an immediate impact.
Based on proven quality, potential impact and the importance of each deal, these are five of the best confirmed signings so far.
1. Maghnes Akliouche — Paris Saint-Germain
The biggest confirmed move within Ligue 1 is Maghnes Akliouche’s transfer from AS Monaco to Paris Saint-Germain. The 24-year-old attacking midfielder signed through 2031 after becoming one of the league’s most valuable creative players.
French media reported the deal at around €50 million. Akliouche left Monaco after 139 senior appearances and 23 goals, while also establishing himself as a French international. For Luis Enrique, his technical quality and versatility add another dimension to an already elite attack.
2. Loïs Openda — Olympique Lyonnais
Olympique Lyonnais needed a striker and found a high-level solution in Loïs Openda. The Belgian international joined on loan from Juventus, with Lyon paying €3.5 million for the season.
His recent spell in Turin was difficult, but his previous record in France and Germany remains significant. Openda scored 21 times in 42 matches for RC Lens before registering 33 Bundesliga goals across 69 appearances with RB Leipzig. At 26, he has the profile to immediately lead Lyon’s attack.
3. Matthis Abline — AS Monaco
After Akliouche’s departure, AS Monaco invested heavily in Matthis Abline, signing the 23-year-old striker from FC Nantes until 2031.
The transfer was valued at approximately €25-30 million. Abline recorded 24 goals and 10 assists in 94 appearances for Nantes and now gets an opportunity to take another step with a club competing at the top end of Ligue 1.
4. Eliezer Mayenda — Stade Rennais
Stade Rennais made one of the league’s most interesting long-term investments by signing Eliezer Mayenda from Sunderland for €22 million.
The 21-year-old forward signed until 2031 after gaining experience in both the Championship and Premier League. His pace and ability to operate centrally or from wide positions give Rennes an attacking option with considerable room to develop.
5. Julien Duranville — Olympique Lyonnais
Another intriguing Lyon addition is Julien Duranville. The Belgian winger arrived permanently from Borussia Dortmund for €5 million and signed a five-year contract.
Still only 20, Duranville has already played Bundesliga and Champions League soccer. Injuries have interrupted his development, but his speed and one-on-one ability make the deal a potentially excellent piece of business.
Which signing could make the biggest impact?
Akliouche is the safest choice because of his proven Ligue 1 quality, while Openda could transform Lyon if he rediscovers his best scoring form. Abline, Mayenda and Duranville carry more projection, but each could become a defining signing of the 2026/27 season.
