Arsenal in picture for Malick Fofana — the 20-year-old Lyon winger has emerged as a late-window option for the Gunners, with Everton already seeing a €36m bid rejected and Bayern Munich also keeping tabs.
According to L’Équipe, Lyon’s financial situation could force them to sanction Fofana’s departure despite manager Paulo Fonseca wanting to keep him. The Ligue 1 club need to raise €40m before June 2026, and the Belgium international is one of their most valuable assets.
Fofana himself is not pushing for an exit but is only willing to leave for Champions League football — something Arsenal and Bayern can both provide. Lyon, however, are prepared to sell if their €40m asking price is met. With the Premier League window entering its final stretch, Lyon insiders expect talks to accelerate.
Why Arsenal Are Monitoring Fofana
Arsenal have been tracking wide options to ease pressure on Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, with Mikel Arteta keen to add depth for another Champions League run. Fofana’s pace, direct dribbling and pressing ability make him an attractive candidate, even if Lyon are reluctant sellers.
Everton, who already failed with a €36m package including bonuses, are hampered by Fofana’s desire to play in Europe’s top competition. That leaves Arsenal and Bayern in the driving seat if either club decides to act.
Malick Fofana on His Future
The player’s entourage have made it clear he is in no rush and is waiting to see if a Champions League side makes a move:
“Malick will only consider leaving if the project matches his ambitions — and that means Champions League football.” — via L’Équipe
This stance effectively rules Everton out unless circumstances change dramatically.
Malick Fofana 2024/25 Stats
| Stat (2024/25) | Malick Fofana |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 41 |
| Goals | 11 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Pass Accuracy | 82% |
source: sofascore match data – 21 August 2025
Fofana featured in 41 matches for Lyon across all competitions last season, registering seven goals and six assists. His passing accuracy stood at 82%, reflecting his balanced profile as both a creator and finisher.
Analyst Verdict
From reviewing Fofana’s recent performances, his ability to stretch defences and create overloads on the flank looks tailor-made for Arsenal’s system. He is particularly effective in transitional moments, where Arteta’s side often thrive.
However, his decision-making in the final third remains inconsistent, meaning a move to a Champions League club would be as much about long-term development as immediate impact. At €40m, the question is whether Arsenal view him as a starter or a rotational piece.
Key Insights
- Everton’s €36m bid rejected — Fofana turned it down due to lack of UCL football.
- Lyon open to a sale if €40m fixed fee is met.
- Arsenal and Bayern are both on the shortlist.
- Fofana’s entourage waiting for late-window movement.
- Lyon need €40m before June 2026 to balance books.
What’s Next
Lyon’s financial situation means they will continue to entertain offers until deadline day. Should Arsenal or Bayern act decisively, they are well placed to leap ahead of Everton.
For the Gunners, the final days of the market will determine whether they gamble on adding another young winger or focus resources elsewhere. With Champions League fixtures looming, Arteta may yet decide Fofana is worth the push.
Should Arsenal match Lyon’s €40m price tag for Malick Fofana — or save their funds for a proven star?
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