Olympique Lyonnais have finalized the signing of Dutch center-back Ruben Kluivert from Portuguese side Casa Pia in a deal worth €4 million, with the 24-year-old son of Dutch legend Patrick Kluivert set to sign a five-year contract.
Lyon have moved swiftly to secure Kluivert’s services after negotiations progressed rapidly over recent days. Olympique Lyonnais are set to complete the signing of Ruben Kluivert (24) from Portuguese side Casa Pia for a fee just over €3m, according to L’Équipe. However, the most recent reports from Fabrizio Romano confirm Lyon have reached an agreement with Casa Pia worth around €4 million, with Ruben having signed the contract.
The Dutch centre-back will sign a five-year contract running until June 2030, making him Lyon’s first major defensive signing in their summer rebuild. The transfer fee puts good value on a player who has caught attention across Europe after his debut season in Portugal’s top flight.
Family Legacy and Player Background
Ruben Kluivert carries the weight of expectation as the son of former Netherlands and Barcelona striker Patrick Kluivert. The 24-year-old defender has carved his own path through football, developing his skills across different leagues before making his mark in Portuguese football.
Ruben Kluivert, 24, from Netherlands plays for Casa Pia AC, since 2024 as a Centre-Back with a market value of €700k. Born May 21, 2001 in Amsterdam, Netherlands, the Amsterdam-born player has impressed observers with his defensive solidity and ball-playing abilities during his time with Casa Pia.
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Impressive Debut Season in Portugal
Kluivert’s performances in his first season with Casa Pia have turned heads across Europe. The Amsterdam-born player has impressed in his debut season in Portugal’s top division, helping Casa Pia finish ninth and attracting interest from multiple French clubs, including RC Lens.
His rapid adaptation to Portuguese football has been noteworthy, with the defender establishing himself as a key player for Casa Pia and earning recognition for his consistent performances at the highest level of Portuguese football.
Competition from French Rivals
Lyon faced competition from other French clubs for Kluivert’s signature. RC Lens had shown strong interest in the Dutch defender, making Lyon’s successful pursuit all the more satisfying.
The competition from Lens and other clubs pushed Lyon to act decisively, with the club moving quickly to secure personal terms and finalize the transfer fee with Casa Pia.
Strategic Acquisition for Lyon
The signing fits perfectly with Lyon’s current transfer strategy under their new ownership structure. For €4 million, the Rhodanian club secures the services of a highly potential defender, in a period marked by budgetary constraints and the consequences of their recent struggles.
This approach focuses on finding value in the transfer market, identifying players with potential who can grow with the club while providing immediate defensive stability.
Post-Textor Era Begins
Kluivert’s arrival marks a new chapter for Lyon following recent ownership changes. The transfer makes him the first signing of the post-Textor era, making him a symbolic signing as the club begins fresh under new leadership and direction.
The timing of his arrival gives Lyon supporters reason for optimism as they look ahead to a new season with renewed ambition and a different approach to squad building.
Player Profile and Playing Style
At 24 years old, Kluivert brings a combination of youth and experience to Lyon’s defensive line. His preferred foot is Right. His jersey number is 3. Ruben Kluivert has also been used as a ball playing defender.
His versatility as a ball-playing defender aligns well with modern football’s demands for center-backs who can contribute to build-up play while maintaining defensive solidity.
Integration Timeline and Expectations
With the deal now complete, Kluivert is expected to join Lyon’s pre-season preparations immediately. His arrival strengthens their defensive options as they prepare for another challenging Ligue 1 campaign and potential European competition.
The five-year contract length shows Lyon’s long-term faith in the defender’s ability to develop further and become a cornerstone of their defense for years to come.
Budget-Conscious Approach
Lyon’s pursuit of Kluivert reflects their need to operate within tighter financial constraints while still improving their squad. The club has had to be creative in the transfer market, seeking players who offer good value rather than pursuing marquee signings.
This strategy could prove successful if players like Kluivert fulfill their potential and provide the foundation for future success both on the pitch and in terms of transfer value.
Defensive Priority Addressed
The signing addresses Lyon’s need for defensive stability after a challenging previous season. Kluivert’s arrival gives them additional options in central defense, providing competition for places and depth across a long campaign.
His ball-playing abilities should help Lyon’s build-up play while his defensive experience in Portugal’s competitive league suggests he can handle the physical demands of French football.
