Zachary Athekame expected to stay at Lyon for the season

AC Milan are considering recalling Zachary Athekame early from his season-long loan at Lyon, but he is expected to stay in France for the rest of the season.

The 21-year-old Swiss right-back joined Lyon from Milan in the summer and has become an important player under coach Paulo Fonseca.

He has scored twice and made three assists; one account counts nine appearances across all competitions, while another says seven opening games.

His strong form has made him valuable to both clubs, and Milan have no option to sell him permanently in the loan deal.

Milan may need cover after winger Samuel Chukwueze suffered an injury that could keep him out for a significant period.

But Fonseca wants Lyon to keep Athekame, and Lyon would expect compensation to agree to an early departure.

He is expected to return to Milan at season’s end, unless the clubs reach another arrangement sooner.