Liverpool transfer news continues to make waves after a record-breaking £450 million summer outlay. The arrivals of Florian Wirtz (£120m) and Alexander Isak (£125m) have transformed Arne Slot’s frontline, but another name keeps circling Anfield: Malick Fofana.
The 20-year-old Belgian winger, valued at £43m by Lyon, turned down a Liverpool move this summer to guarantee minutes ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Everton also wanted him, but Fofana chose Ligue 1 to accelerate his development.
Now, Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne has delivered a glowing endorsement, suggesting Fofana may have the potential to eclipse his compatriot Jeremy Doku. Could Liverpool reignite their interest in 2026?
De Bruyne’s Verdict on Fofana vs Doku
De Bruyne, speaking after Belgium’s 6-0 win over Kazakhstan where Fofana replaced Doku in the 63rd minute, outlined what excites him about the youngster’s style:
“If you look at how modern football is played, there are more man-to-man situations. If you have players who can dribble past opponents or create space for others, then that’s only a good thing. A Doku type? Yes, they’re both wingers, quite small, quick. Of course, Jeremy has been with us for five or six years. He also plays for Man City, which—with all due respect—is a level above Lyon. Malick is younger and is still picking things up.” — Kevin De Bruyne, Het Nieuwsblad
The comparison is telling. Doku has shown flashes at City but has failed to hit double figures for goals in any season. Fofana, meanwhile, already has one standout campaign at Lyon under his belt, with 10 goals and 5 assists in 2024/25.
Why Fofana Fits Liverpool’s Future Plans
Liverpool’s new-look attack features Isak, Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo. Yet the club still seeks long-term solutions on the flanks, particularly with Mohamed Salah in the twilight of his career.
Fofana has publicly stated Liverpool is his “dream destination” and believes the timing will be right in 2026. Lyon’s £43m valuation may even look like a bargain if his upward trajectory continues. Slot’s system thrives on dynamic wide players capable of beating defenders — precisely Fofana’s profile.
Fofana vs Doku: Key Numbers
| Stat (2024/25) | Fofana (Lyon) | Doku (Man City) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearances | 34 | 31 |
| Goals | 10 | 3 |
| Assists | 5 | 4 |
| Successful Dribbles per game | 3.1 | 2.8 |
source: sofascore match data – 8 September 2025
The numbers show why De Bruyne rates him: greater end product at a younger age. Liverpool scouts will be watching closely.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes the Fofana–Liverpool link is one to watch:
“Liverpool’s recruitment has been bold, but they still lack a pure winger who can replicate Salah’s dribbling and directness. Fofana has that profile and, at just 20, more room to grow than Doku. The key will be whether Lyon can hold him beyond 2026 — because Liverpool’s pull is strong.”
Key Insights
- Kevin De Bruyne says Malick Fofana could rival or surpass Jeremy Doku.
- Liverpool and Everton both tried to sign him this summer.
- Lyon value Fofana at £43m and secured his short-term commitment.
- Liverpool may return in 2026, aligning with Salah succession planning.
- Fofana named Anfield his “dream destination.”
What’s Next?
For now, Fofana will stay at Lyon, focusing on regular minutes and a place in Belgium’s World Cup squad. Liverpool’s hierarchy will reassess in 2026 once Rio Ngumoha’s development and Salah’s situation become clearer.
Everton appear out of the running, while Manchester City may regret not tying down another Belgian gem. All eyes now turn to Lyon — can they keep hold of Fofana when Europe’s biggest clubs come knocking?
👉 Should Liverpool wait until 2026 for Fofana — or test Lyon’s resolve with a £43m bid next summer?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *