Malick Fofana tug-of-war as Sunderland ‘to arrange’ France medical amid Crystal Palace bid | OneFootball

Sunderland and Crystal Palace are locked in a deadline-day battle for Malick Fofana, with momentum swinging between the Premier League rivals.

Sunderland had agreed a package with Lyon worth around €35 million including bonuses, with permission granted for a medical in England. L’Equipe reports Palace have since struck about €39 million including bonuses and that Pierre Sage spoke to the winger to sway him towards Selhurst Park.

French journalist Romain Molina claims Kyril Louis-Dreyfus is personally involved, overseeing medical arrangements as Sunderland attempt a reverse hijack. He also says the Black Cats improved commission terms for Fofana’s camp, and that the player’s uncle at Roc Nation spoke to him as he reconsidered.

Foot Mercato reported the 21-year-old had packed up at Lyon’s training ground before setting off for England. Later, Foot Mercato indicated he had taken off for Sunderland, while L’Equipe said he had not boarded and was waiting to see if Palace could finalise a deal.

The wider picture is unchanged, both clubs are scrambling for his signature. Fofana had been enthused by Sunderland’s project, with Europa League football part of the lure and a deal to 2031 discussed. Palace countered with a larger club-to-club offer and Sage’s influence from Lyon.

Sky Sports reports the winger has not boarded a flight to Sunderland, with plans being made for a medical in France instead. The outlet adds Sunderland are not yet confident, though the current picture is roughly 70-30 in their favour.

Source: Sunderland Echo

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”