Olympique Lyon forward Malick Fofana has reportedly emerged as a transfer target for Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool.Â
Nottingham Forest are also interested in Fofana, but they do not have the stature to beat the heavyweights to the punch.
Man Utd, Liverpool, and Chelsea are Interested in Lyon Starlet Malick Fofana
Olympique Lyon forward Malick Fofana has garnered a lot of interest from prominent European clubs. According to L’Equipe, he is especially loved in the Premier League, with multiple clubs registering an interest in him.
Chelsea have already opened casual talks with Olympique Lyon over a summer transfer. However, the Blues may have to pick up the pace if they want to secure the forward’s services ahead of English rivals.
Utd, who are overseeing a summer overhaul, have registered their strong interest. According to reports, they have transfer-listed three of their forwards — Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Jadon Sancho. If they leave, Man Utd could use a player of Fofana’s talents down the wing.
Chelsea have made initial contact with Lyon for 20-year-old winger Malick Fofana 🔵 pic.twitter.com/lqsAiFVOJM
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) June 16, 2025
Finally, there are Premier League winners Liverpool, who seemingly have the lead in the race for Fofana. As per the aforementioned report, the Reds have already held talks with the player’s agents. With Barcelona proving their interest in Luis Diaz by rejecting a move for free agent Kevin De Bruyne, Liverpool could do with a competent backup on the left wing.
Olympique Lyon find themselves in financial turmoil and need to raise funds to avoid Financial Fair Play sanctions. After selling Rayan Cherki to Manchester City for £30.9 million, they could accept an even bigger offer for Fofana. L’Equipe understands Lyon want around £42.6 million for the 20-year-old.
If any of the Premier League clubs table a deal in the £40 million ballpark, they would have a good chance of signing Fofana.
Malick Fofana Stats
Malick Fofana came through KAA Gent’s youth system before signing his first professional contract in July 2022. After spending one and a half seasons with Gent, Olympique Lyon came calling. Gent accepted a £16.6 million offer from Lyon for their starlet.
Since his move to Ligue 1, Fofana has established himself as one of the most creative wingers in the division. He is a skilful dribbler, possesses excellent close control, packs a powerful shot, and is a gifted crosser. Despite being only 20, Fofana can take the fight to some of the best defences in the business.
Malick Fofana – 17 G/A in around 2000 minutes for Lyon this season.
20 years of age.
Still a bit inconsistent, but already showing flashes of his enormous potential.
Big future ahead. 💫 pic.twitter.com/nFkbdx64ux
— Football Talent Scout – Jacek Kulig (@FTalentScout) April 28, 2025
Fofana has played 64 games for Lyon in all competitions, scoring 15 goals and providing 7 assists. He has also played one game for the Belgium national team, having made his debut in the 2-2 draw with Italy in October 2024.
