Romaine Faivre was on the verge of a summer transfer to Milan, but now admits missing out was ‘a blessing in disguise’ as he flourishes at Lyon.
The midfielder had been so close to the switch to San Siro, though the Rossoneri and his club Brest could not decide on a transfer fee.
The deal was abandoned and in January Faivre did get his step up in quality to Olympique Lyonnais.
“It was really flattering to know Milan were interested in me,” Faivre told Le Progrès.
“However, the fact it didn’t happen was a blessing in disguise. I told myself, you are fortunate to be at Brest, in Ligue 1 and playing almost every game, so make the most of this time to show what you can do.
“I knew the opportunity to join a big club would come eventually.”
The 23-year-old made the transfer in January for €15m after notching up eight goals and six assists for Brest so far this season.
He is yet to find the net in his three Ligue 1 appearances in the Lyon jersey.