Malick Fofana of Lyon runs with the ball
Malick Fofana of Lyon runs with the ball (Photo by Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Aston Villa are reportedly gearing up for a transfer battle with Premier League rivals Liverpool and Arsenal in a race to secure the services of one of Ligue 1's most exciting young prospects.
19-year-old Malick Fofana is reportedly of interest to the Villans as he continues to shine for French side Lyon, according to CaughtOffside.
Fofana has been a bright spark for Les Gones this season as he enjoys a breakout campaign so far. The Belgian forward has six goals and two assists in all competitions already this season, with three coming in the Europa League as he makes his name known on the continental stage.
Villa are said to be in the hunt for Fofana's signature along with the Gunners and Arne Slot's Reds, with it looking like the young prospect could be available for a potential bargain.
Lyon find themselves in dire straits financially, with it being said that bids for any of their current crop of players will be considered. Due to Fofana's young age and high potential, cashing in for the youngster now may be the best course of action.
It is said that a price in the region of €30-€35 million would be enough to force Lyon's hand, with interest in Fofana also coming from elsewhere in Europe in the likes of AC Milan, Juventus, and German giants Bayern Munich.
With Villa currently lacking in out-and-out wingers, as highlighted by Lions hero Gabby Agbonlahor recently, and with current wide men Leon Bailey and Jaden Philogene currently struggling for form and consistency, the Belgium international could provide excitement and competition to Unai Emery's side's wide areas.
Compared to the other clubs thought to be sniffing around, Villa could provide more of a platform for consistent game time for Fofana which could aid his career going forward.
Should Villa buy more wingers? Tell us here