Lyon has leveled serious allegations against West Ham, condemning what they describe as “incomprehensible behavior” and a “lack of respect” after the proposed transfer of Said Benrahma to France collapsed on Deadline Day.

Benrahma had journeyed to Lyon with hopes of finalizing the transfer before the closure of the French window at 10 pm. 

However, Lyon asserts that despite their efforts to complete the administrative procedures on the FIFA platform, West Ham failed to initiate any technical procedures, despite repeated reminders and ongoing communication between the clubs.

“However, at the start of the evening, while Olympique Lyonnais had entered all the administrative data on the dedicated FIFA platform (FIFA TMS), West Ham had never launched the slightest technical procedure on its part, despite the repeated reminders from the OL and continuous mutual telephone communication.

“In the absence of this reciprocal action on the part of the English club and following this incomprehensible behaviour, raising questions, the international transfer certificate could not be requested before closing time.

“Olympique Lyonnais deeply regrets this situation and this decision, demonstrating a profound lack of respect on the part of West Ham towards the institution and the player.

“The club reserves the right to initiate all appropriate procedures necessary to validate the transaction at a later date, and to hold West Ham responsible if necessary,” Lyon said in a statement.

In response, West Ham issued a statement acknowledging that the Deadline Day deal for Said Benrahma to join Lyon was not concluded before the deadline.

“West Ham United can confirm that the Deadline Day deal for Said Benrahma to join Olympique Lyonnais was not concluded ahead of the deadline, with a deal unable to be completed before 11pm,” the club said.