Malick Fofana has been spotted in a Manchester United shirt. The Olympique Lyonnais winger has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League this summer following his impressive performances in the French top-flight.
Fofana, whose contract at the Groupama Stadium expires in June 2028, featured 29 times in Ligue 1 this season, scoring five goals and providing four assists. Playing a key role for Paulo Fonseca's side, he helped the French giants finish sixth and qualify for the Conference League.
Despite finishing 24 points clear of the bottom three, Lyon were relegated to the second tier last week due to the poor finances. While they await the outcome of their appeal, John Textor has resigned from his leadership position on the board, with Michele Kang appointed as the new chairwoman.
In the meantime, Fofana – like many other players at Lyon – faces an uncertain future. But, rather than sweat over his future, the youngster has been working hard to stay fit ahead of the new season.
On Sunday, Fofana uploaded a couple of pictures from a private training session with friends. Rather than donning Lyon gear or neutral sportswear, the Belgium international threw on a full Manchester United kit with Marcus Rashford's name and number 10 on the back.
Malick Fofana in a full Manchester United kit, with Marcus Rashford's name on the back
Malick Fofana in a full Manchester United kit, with Marcus Rashford's name on the back (Image: @malick_fofana7 on Instagram)
Malick Fofana in a full Manchester United kit, with Marcus Rashford's name on the back
Malick Fofana in a full Manchester United kit, with Marcus Rashford's name on the back
Shortly after signing with a new agency back in April, Fofana was quizzed on his future at Lyon and interest from the Premier League. Speaking toFootball Insider, he said: "Honestly, I hear about it.
"But it doesn’t affect me so I just focus on myself, and I know when I do great that the rest will come. I watch a lot of the Premier League, I know there is a lot of big clubs so, for the moment, I just want to make that return on the pitch."
Fofana added: "In my head I said to myself, 'This season I have to show myself to the world'. I know I am capable of that. I know my talents.
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"I know what I can do, so it was just a matter of time. I know people will always talk. I stay calm, I have a great mentality so I know it will come."
Earlier this month, football.london reported that Chelsea were interested in signing Fofana. The Belgian was one of several left wingers on Enzo Maresca's shortlist before the Blues wrapped up a £55m deal for Jamie Gittens.
It's understood that Chelsea initiated contact with Lyon to explore the possibility of a transfer, but the Borussia Dortmund star was always the primary target. Gittens, who is set to sign a a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge, is expected to follow the arrival of Joao Pedro.
Jamie Gittens in action for Borussia Dortmund at the FIFA Club World Cup this month
Jamie Gittens in action for Borussia Dortmund at the FIFA Club World Cup this month (Image: Hendrik Deckers/Borussia Dortmund via Getty Images)
football.london understands that Chelsea and Brighton have agreed a £55m deal, plus £5m in add-ons, for the 23-year-old forward. Pedro, who sees his current deal at the Amex Stadium expire in June 2028, was heavily linked with a move to Newcastle United before the west Londoners swooped in.
The Brazil international is also set to sign a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge, subject to a medical. Pedro will now join up with the squad ahead of Chelsea's clash against Palmeiras in the Club World Cup quarterfinals.
He could make his debut for the west Londoners this weekend if he's registered before the tournament's deadline on Thursday, July 3...
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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