Lorient to move for Jimmy Briand as replacement for the departing Jordan Ayew

Lorient are lining up a move for Jimmy Briand as the replacement for Ghana striker Jordan Ayew.

Les Merlus appear to have resigned themselves to losing Ayew despite disagreements over his move to Aston Villa.

Jordan Ayew has reportedly already had his medical at Villa and is now awaiting clearance to complete his €12m switch to the Premier League.

Lorient coach Sylvain Ripoll is already looking to replace the departing Ayew and has identified 29-year-old Briand as ideal.

The Hannover striker already has Ligue 1 experience having featured for Stade Rennes and Olympique Lyon.

The move for Briand will gain momentum once Jordan Ayew completes his switch to Aston Villa.