Florent Ghisolfi explains why Sunderland never wavered in Malick Fofana bid despite deadline-day saga | OneFootball

Sunderland completed the deadline-day signing of Malick Fofana after a tussle with Crystal Palace, and director of football Florent Ghisolfi told Sunderland Echo the club never wavered in their pursuit.

An agreement with Lyon and the player was reached early, then Palace moved to try to reunite Fofana with former coach Pierre Sage and at one stage looked set to win the race. The deal hung in the balance for much of the day.

Kyril Louis-Dreyfus flew to Lyon as Sunderland sought to close. Fofana completed his medical in the city, and the Black Cats filed a deal sheet to gain extra Premier League time, then finalised the transfer.

The drawn-out process prompted questions over Fofana’s commitment. Ghisolfi accepted the saga did not reflect well on the football industry, but defended the player’s conduct and said Sunderland always felt he wanted the move. He stressed they knew his personality and mentality from their shortlist work and that he would fit the club.

Late suggestions that Palace had backed away due to an apparent ankle issue flagged in the medical were rejected by Ghisolfi. He maintained there was no issue and added that while Sunderland might lose another race in future, they were very happy to land a player they feel is exactly what they need today.

Source: Sunderland Echo

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