Liverpool’s pursuit of fresh attacking talent has taken a twist, with reports suggesting the Reds could move for Malick Fofana at a reduced fee.
Liverpool has continued to be linked with a move for highly rated winger, who could be available during the summer transfer window amid Olympique Lyon's ongoing financial struggles. The French club's off-field troubles—highlighted by a brief, overturned demotion to Ligue 2—has placed pressure on the club to cash in on some of their most valuable assets.
Everton is also exploring the market for attacking reinforcements and are understood to have Fofana on its shortlist. The 20-year-old enjoyed an impressive campaign last season, scoring 11 goals and providing six assists in 41 appearances under Paulo Fonseca.
Lyon still faces the need to raise close to $46 million in player sales—an amount equivalent to the value of the Belgian winger, a player Paulo Fonseca is understandably keen to keep.
Fofana’s influence was clear on the opening day of Ligue 1, where his presence proved a constant threat to Lens.
He repeatedly forced defenders back and provided the decisive assist for Georges Mikautadze’s winner.
Lyon’s 1-0 victory owed much to Fofana, the only member of last season’s starting attack who has not departed this summer.
His importance to the side underlines why the club would be reluctant to cash in, even amid pressing financial demands.
Malick Fofana of Olympique Lyon celebrates
Liverpool could swoop for Malick Fofana (Image: Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Fofana has been earmarked as a long-term investment, capable of developing under Arne Slot while providing additional squad depth in attack.
With Liverpool already spending heavily this summer, the prospect of a cut-price move for a player with high potential is seen as an attractive option.
If Lyon become desperate to sell the player in a bid to reduce its financial issues, the club may be willing to listen to reasonable offers from various clubs.
Everton’s $42.6 million bid for Fofana was rejected by Lyon earlier in the window, but as it draws to a close the Reds could swoop for the player with a slightly higher offer.
Last season, Fofana ranked in the 97th percentile among Ligue 1 wingers and attacking midfielders for progressive carries, averaging 6.34 per 90 minutes.
While there are still aspects of his game to refine, his improvement in front of goal is an encouraging sign. Coupled with his explosive pace, he often leaves opponents with little answer to his direct, driving runs.