Football

Transfer: Malick Fofana finally leaves OL for Sunderland

Malick Fofana, young winger from Olympique Lyonnais, is set to join Sunderland despite interest from Arsenal.

1 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Transfer: Malick Fofana finally leaves OL for Sunderland — Archive photoPhoto: S. Plaine · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Malick Fofana, a 21-year-old Belgian winger from Olympique Lyonnais, is preparing to leave the club to join Sunderland, according to multiple sources.

Initially, Arsenal had shown interest in the player, exploring recruitment options while negotiating the sale of Gabriel Martinelli to Al-Hilal. Arsenal reportedly engaged in direct discussions with Fofana's camp, making offers, but never met OL's demands, which anticipated around 40 million euros.

In contrast, Sunderland, currently ranked 11th in the Premier League, has reached an agreement with Lyon for a transfer valued at 30 million euros, plus bonuses, which is a necessary exit for the Lyon club seeking to rebalance its finances after failing to qualify for the Champions League.

According to RMC Sport, the decision to join Sunderland was seen as a surprise, as many observers expected a signing with Arsenal. The transfer agreement has been successfully finalized, paving the way for a new environment for Fofana.

Olympique Lyonnais faces financial challenges and needs to sell certain players to stabilize its economic situation. This sale could therefore ease the club's finances, especially after a disappointing season on the European stage.

Fofana's transfer to Sunderland also reflects the current dynamics of the transfer market, where clubs seek to strengthen their squads while navigating economic pressures. Specific details of the transaction and reactions from the parties involved are expected to emerge soon.

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