Chelsea have made contact to sign Lyon winger Malick Fofana, according to [L’Equipe](https://www.lequipe.fr/Football/Actualites/Mercato-chelsea-a-contacte-l-ol-pour-malick-fofana/1570658). The Blues have spoken to the French club about a deal, but are yet to submit an offer for the young talent.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca complained about his lack of wing options ahead of the Club World Cup fixture against Los Angeles FC.
The Europa Conference League champions have only Tyrique George, Noni Madueke, and Pedro Neto on the flank for the tournament in the United States after letting Jadon Sancho leave.
They failed with a transfer swoop for Borussia Dortmund attacker Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, with the Bundesliga club rejecting a bid.
It remains unclear whether Chelsea want both Gittens and Fofana, but reports in France claim the Blues are interested in the Belgian.
Fofana enjoyed a breakout campaign, bagging 11 goals and six assists in 47 appearances for Lyon across all competitions.
Fofana particularly caught the eye in the Europa League, dazzling against top-level opposition, including Manchester United.
His performances have attracted the interest of powerhouses like Chelsea and Liverpool, [who had their radar on him in case Luis Diaz leaves this summer](https://footballtoday.com/2025/05/20/liverpool-eye-malick-fofana-to-replace-luis-diaz/).
Lyon paid €19.5 million to sign him from Gent and suitors must be ready to meet the French side’s demands.
The 20-year-old is an electric dribbler who has end product. He could develop into an excellent winger at Stamford Bridge.
However, signing Gittens and Fofana this summer spells danger for George, who was one of the bright spots of the Chelsea campaign.
The Cobham Academy graduate proved a terrific addition, playing across the frontline. The addition of two new wingers, plus Estevao Willian, might hamper his game time in the first team.
Besides, Chelsea might also have to cut one of Madueke or Neto.
The Telegraph previously reported that while the Blues are not looking to sell, they will consider offers for the England international.