The Belgian winger has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter since arriving from RSC Anderlecht in January 2023 despite being regarded as one of Europe's brightest young attacking talents.
According to Sky Sport Germany, Lyon have already reached an agreement with Duranville on personal terms. The French club are also reported to be in advanced negotiations with Borussia Dortmund as they work towards finalising a permanent transfer. The proposed deal is expected to be worth around €8.5 million including bonuses.
Dortmund are also expected to secure a 20 per cent sell-on clause as part of the agreement, ensuring they retain an interest in the player's future development. For Duranville, the move would offer the opportunity for a fresh start after an inconsistent spell in Germany.
The 20-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at FC Basel in an attempt to gain regular first-team football. That temporary switch provided valuable experience.
Duranville contributed two goals and one assist across 16 appearances during his time in Switzerland and showed flashes of the talent that originally convinced Dortmund to invest in him.
His progress has often been interrupted by injury setbacks. Those fitness problems made it difficult for him to build momentum at Signal Iduna Park and limited his opportunities to establish himself within the first-team squad. Despite those challenges, his potential remains highly regarded.
Lyon appear convinced that the winger can still develop into an important player and are prepared to offer him a platform to continue his growth. From Dortmund's perspective, the deal would allow the club to recoup part of their investment while retaining a financial stake in any future transfer. The inclusion of a sell-on clause suggests the Bundesliga side still believe Duranville could significantly increase his value in the years ahead.
The Belgian leaves having made 27 competitive appearances for Dortmund. During that time he recorded one goal and one assist, though those numbers tell only part of the story given the interruptions he faced.
A move to Lyon could provide the consistent playing time he has struggled to find in Germany.
If negotiations are completed as expected, Duranville will arrive in France with a point to prove and the chance to finally deliver on the promise that made him one of Belgium's most highly rated young prospects.