Malick Fofana chooses to join Sunderland over Crystal Palace | OneFootball

Olympique Lyonnais forward Malick Fofana (21) has decided to join Sunderland over Crystal Palace, according to a report Sacha Tavolieri. The Belgium international forward has made his choice in favour of the Black Cats, with the decision described as definitive, bringing an end to the transfer saga surrounding the winger.

Sunderland had been in negotiations with Lyon and the winger’s representatives throughout the final stages of the transfer window and now appear to have won the race for his signature. The 21-year-old had attracted significant interest from across the Premier League. Arsenal had explored a move but were unwilling to meet Lyon’s €40m asking price, while Crystal Palace had also attempted to hijack Sunderland’s deal but have ultimately come up short in their pursuit of the OL attacker.

Fofana to join Sunderland

Fofana joined Lyon from Gent in January 2024 and quickly established himself as one of the club’s most exciting attacking players. His departure will represent a significant loss for Lyon, who have been forced to sell the wide forward after failing to qualify for the UEFA Champions League Fofana will now continue his career in England, with Sunderland securing one of the most sought-after young attackers in Ligue 1.

GFFN | Liam Wraith