Chelsea Have Set Their Sights On This Ligue 1 Winger: What Will He Bring To Stamford Bridge? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalist Mark Brus claimed that Chelsea have set their sights on Olympique Lyonnais winger Malick Fofana. It is understood that the Blues are showing interest in recruiting the Belgian wide player next year.

Fofana’s Impressive Form In French Football

The 20-year-old had a decent campaign at the French club as he was responsible for producing a series of impressive displays for them in the final third. Fofana participated in 41 matches for Lyon last season, scoring 11 times and earning six assists in all competitions.

The Belgian wing wizard deserves a ton of credit for averaging 1.76 shots per 90 minutes in the Ligue 1. He kept 48.4% of his attempts on target. Fofana was accurate when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 77.4% in the French first division (stats via fbref.com).

His current contract at Lyon will run out in the summer of 2028. Thus, Chelsea would have to make a big offer if they want to lure Fofana to Stamford Bridge next year.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY – JANUARY 23: Malick Fofana of Olympique Lyonnais looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between Fenerbahce SK and Olympique Lyonnais at on January 23, 2025 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)

What Will Fofana Bring To Chelsea?

Fofana is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make a few driving runs with it out on the flanks. He has got the vision to create a few inviting chances for his teammates to find the back of the net.

The Belgian sensation can shoot the ball with power and precision from long range. He is primarily a left-sided wide player but can also operate as a right-winger or as a centre-forward if needed.

Fofana would bring more goals and creativity to Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca’s attack. He has what it takes to fight for a regular first-team spot at Stamford Bridge in the coming years. The Belgian talent could even help Chelsea compete across all fronts over the next decade.

At 20, Fofana has his peak years ahead of him, which makes him a decent choice for the Blues to consider this January or at the end of this campaign. However, there are some question marks over whether he can adapt to the physicality and high intensity of the Premier League if the Blues manage to bring him on board next year.