Liverpool eye Lyon star with Chiesa set to be offloaded | OneFootball

Liverpool Target Fofana as Chiesa Exit Nears

Liverpool Prioritise Fofana Amid Chiesa Uncertainty

Liverpool are actively exploring a deal to sign Malick Fofana from Olympique Lyonnais as they prepare for the likely departure of Federico Chiesa, according to Get Football. The 20-year-old Belgian winger is now considered a primary target by the Anfield hierarchy following a largely underwhelming season for Chiesa.

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Despite arriving with high expectations, Chiesa featured just six times in the Premier League, making only one start, which came in the penultimate fixture of the campaign after the title was already secured. As it stands, there is minimal interest in the Italy international, and Liverpool are ready to move on.

Photo: IMAGO

Fofana, who registered 17 goal contributions across 41 appearances last season, is seen as a long-term solution. Liverpool are currently leading the race for his signature, ahead of Chelsea, according to Sacha Tavolieri. The player recently changed agents and Lyon are prepared to sell for around €50 million, although a bidding war could push that fee to €70 million.

Photo: IMAGO

L’Équipe have also confirmed interest from Chelsea, but sources suggest Liverpool’s project and pathway to first-team football may give them an edge.

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Chiesa’s arrival never really clicked. Injuries, lack of rhythm, and the competitiveness of the squad limited his impact, and when he did get minutes, he often looked like a player short of confidence.

Fofana, by contrast, is an emerging talent with pace, agility and end product. Seventeen goal contributions in Ligue 1 at 20 years old is no small feat. His direct style, technical balance and positional awareness could suit Arne Slot’s blueprint well, especially if the Dutchman continues to emphasise verticality and pressing from wide areas.

What’s even more encouraging is that Liverpool appear to be operating proactively. Rather than letting Chiesa’s situation drag on into late August, the club are already looking at alternatives who can make an immediate impact while also developing over time.

It is never ideal when a big signing fails to deliver, but the speed with which Liverpool have identified Fofana suggests lessons have been learned. If the Reds can fend off Chelsea and get this over the line early, it could be one of the most exciting additions of the summer.