The Algeria international underwent a medial on Thursday but the switch appeared to have been called off by West Ham, with Lyon describing the club’s behaviour as “incomprehensible” and lacking respect.
The French side maintained that it had filed the relevant information in time for the deal to be ratified, and called on football’s world governing body to intervene.
The Hammers confirmed on Saturday (AEDT) that Benrahma’s loan move for the rest of the season with an option to buy had indeed gone through.
West Ham United can confirm Saïd Benrahma has joined Olympique Lyonnais on loan until the end of the 2023/24 season.
— West Ham United (@WestHam) February 2, 2024
The Hammers rejected Lyon’s accusations that they acted improperly and believes the claims are unfounded and potentially damaging.
Pablo Fornals has also left the club to join Real Betis after the LaLiga side joined Lyon’s appeal to FIFA over why a deal that appeared to have been completed was on the brink of collapse.
A move had looked set to go through on Friday (AEDT) but Betis claimed “a computer problem” prevented the transfer from being completed.