Lille goalkeeper Bodal has joined Le Havre on a free transfer and will wear the number 16 jersey.

French Ligue 1 club Le Havre has officially confirmed the signing of Belgian goalkeeper Arnaud Bodal from Lille as a free agent. The two sides have signed a one-year contract, valid until June 30, 2027.

According to the official statement, Bodár will wear the number 16 jersey at Le Havre.

The 28-year-old Bodal came through the Standard Liège youth academy and made his professional debut for the first team on May 16, 2017, during the Belgian First Division A playoffs. After eight years with Standard Liège, he moved to Metz and then joined Lille on a free transfer in July 2025.

However, Bodal primarily serves as Berke Ozer's backup goalkeeper at Lille. To date, he has only made 5 appearances for Lille.

Le Havre's emergency signing of Bodal aims to fill the void left by Lionel Mpassic's serious Achilles tendon injury. Bodal joined Le Havre as a medical substitute after terminating his contract with Lille, and is expected to be substituted after Gauthier Gallon in the pecking order.

After completing the transfer, Bodár posted a long farewell message to Lille on Instagram: "I was fortunate to wear the Lille jersey for more than a year and went through a challenging yet rewarding journey. I was not always a starter and only made five appearances - two of which were particularly bad."

“These moments are certainly difficult, but they are also part of my career, allowing me to grow, work hard, and make progress.”

"Of course, I would have liked to have more opportunities to showcase myself and play to my strengths on the field. Nevertheless, I am sure that I have grown on a competitive, mental and personal level. Last season was challenging but also very rewarding and will leave a lasting mark on my career."

“Wearing the Lille jersey and defending this crest makes me incredibly proud. I always know that it is my privilege to represent the club and the city.”

"I left with mixed feelings, but mostly gratitude. I will cherish the precious memories, important insights, and encounters from last season that will forever be etched in my heart. A new chapter is about to begin, but a part of my story will remain in Lille forever."

Image source: Internet /Le Havre official website