Liverpool could look to win the race for Lyon prodigy Malick Fofana in the coming months, according to reports - with the Reds having placed the Belgian at the 'top' of their transfer shortlist as they look for a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah.
Fofana, 20, had his breakthrough season with Lyon over the past year, notching 17 goal contributions in France in just 41 games in all competitions, as well as making his Belgium debut back in October - and that could see Arne Slot look to land him on the right side of his attack to find a succession plan for their Egyptian star Salah.
Report: Liverpool Place Fofana at 'Top of Shortlist'
The Reds have been in fine form and could look to continue their busy summer
Malick Fofana in action for Lyon
The report by Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri states that Fofana's agents are 'busy', stirring up the English market to raise his profile ahead of a potential move away from Lyon.
Malick Fofana's Ligue 1 statistics - Lyon squad ranking
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They've been successful in doing so, and Liverpool are one of the clubs interested in his services. Liverpool's 'Head of Recruitment', Barry Hunter, has placed Fofana at the top of their shortlist - though the club will have to part ways with Italian winger Federico Chiesa first, with new Italy boss Gennaro Gattuso stating that the former Juventus man needs to be playing more regularly if he is to be up for consideration by the Azzurri.
Fofana, according to the report, is valued at around €50million (£43million), and Ligue 1 side Lyon will be counting on a bidding war to raise the price of their Belgian starlet, potentially holding out for a fee of €70million (£60million), which could be a realistic fee if Lyon play their cards right in garnering a fee for their 'wonderkid'.
The report further states that Fofana is the first option to replace Chiesa, and he could also act as backup to Colombian star Luis Diaz, who is expected to remain at Anfield next season.
There hasn't been any 'real' discussion between Liverpool and Fofana over personal terms, but a winger-clad market could force Liverpool into making an offer to avoid rival clubs winning the race for the young Belgian's services.
The report comes to a close by stating that Liverpool have a 'head start' in the race for his signature, and with an outstanding breakthrough season at the Groupama Stadium, Fofana could try his hand at Anfield by the time the season comes to a close.
Statistics courtesy of WhoScored. Correct as of 23-06-25.
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