Malick Fofana finds himself in a strange Deadline Day twist as Premier League teams compete for Arsenal’s wanted player.
Malick Fofana has been the big name on transfer deadline day, with many thinking the Belgian star was heading to Premier League champions Arsenal. But then Sunderland stepped in, agreeing a deal that made it look like he’d be joining the Black Cats at the Stadium of Light.
Just when things seemed set, Crystal Palace matched Sunderland’s offer and tried to swoop in. The Eagles offered him better terms, and it looked like he might choose Selhurst Park instead. Then things got even more hectic as talks continued, and both clubs still believe they have a chance to sign him.
The 21-year-old found himself in a tricky spot at an airport in Lyon, with two private jets waiting—one ready to take him to Sunderland, and the other to London. Before he can finalize any move, he needs to complete a medical exam. But with the transfer window closing fast, there won’t be time for that in England.
So, he’s doing the medical in Lyon. And just when you think the story couldn’t get more exciting, French journalist Romain Molina revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that Fofana is having the medical but still doesn’t know which club he’ll join. He’s waiting to make up his mind between Sunderland and Crystal Palace.
Fans of both Sunderland and Crystal Palace are eagerly waiting to see where Fofana will end up in the Premier League.
Fofana had a great start to his Ligue 1 season with Lyon, scoring a goal in his only game so far. That adds to the 10 goals he’s scored over the last three seasons. Earlier in the transfer window, Hull City tried to sign him with a £35 million bid, but it was turned down. At just 21, Fofana wants to prove himself in the English top flight and in Europe, which is why he’s considering offers from Arsenal, Sunderland, and Crystal Palace—all clubs playing in European competitions this season.