In an interview with TMW, Giovanni Bia discussed the unsuccessful transfer operation between Lyon and Fiorentina for Mangala. Fiorentina had shown significant interest in the midfielder in the final days of the transfer market, but he ultimately joined Everton. Bia stated that he had organized the operation with Pradè and Goretti. Lyon had initially requested a loan with an option to buy, with total figures between 25-30 million. Mangala was close to moving to Florence when the deal collapsed.

Orel Mangala seemed to be on his way to English club Everton, but Italian club Fiorentina showed interest and took the lead for a while. However, Mangala is now set to join Everton instead.

Fiorentina saw an opportunity to hijack the transfer and seems increasingly likely to succeed in their attempt. According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Mangala himself has now indicated that he prefers a transfer to Florence. Fiorentina is aiming for a loan with a purchase option, a similar formula to that offered by Everton.

Fiorentina saw an opportunity to hijack the transfer and it increasingly looks like the Italians might succeed. According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Mangala himself has indicated that he prefers a transfer to Florence. Fiorentina is aiming for a loan with an option to buy, a similar formula as offered by Everton.