Arsenal Are Locked In A Three-Way Battle For This Ligue 1 Winger: Should Arteta Snap Him Up? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Fichajes revealed that Arsenal are locked in a three-way battle for Olympique Lyonnais winger Malick Fofana. It has been stated that the Gunners would have to rival Liverpool and Manchester City in the race to land the Belgian wide player next year.

Fofana’s Impressive Form In Ligue 1

Fofana has proven his worth at times with his performances for Lyon in the final third during this campaign. The 20-year-old has registered two goals and earned one assist in 12 matches for the French outfit this season across multiple competitions.

The Belgian talent has managed to shine at times in the opponent’s half as he is averaging 2.25 shots per 90 minutes in Ligue 1. He has kept 50% of his attempts on target. Fofana was even accurate when distributing possession from the wide areas, based on his pass success rate of 75.1% in the French first division (stats via fbref.com).

His current contract at the French club will run out in the summer of 2028. Hence, it won’t be easy for the Gunners to recruit him on the cheap next year.

CARDIFF, WALES – OCTOBER 13: Malick Fofana of Belgium takes on Neco Williams of Wales during the Group J FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Wales and Belgium at Cardiff City Stadium on October 13, 2025 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Should Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Snap Fofana Up?

Fofana is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and has got the eye to play some decisive passes in the final third. He can shoot the ball with power from long range and can chip in by scoring and creating his fair share of goals up top.

The Belgian sensation is primarily a left-sided wide player but can also operate as a right-winger if told to do so. However, there are some question marks over whether he can cope with the physical side and high intensity of the Premier League if the Gunners manage to win the race for his services next year.

Fofana would bring more firepower to Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta’s frontline. He has what it takes to fight for a regular first-team spot at the North London club.

At 20, Fofana has got the potential to be a future star in English football. Therefore, Arteta should focus on trying everything they can to lure him to the Emirates Stadium. The Belgian talent might help the North London club compete for some major silverware over the next decade. With all things considered, Arsenal should focus on snapping him up soon.