Malick Fofana reveals Sunderland ambitions after Mikel Arteta blocks Arsenal transfer

Malick Fofana has outlined his ambitions at Sunderland after completing a £30million move from Lyon on deadline day, with the Belgian revealing just how strongly the Black Cats pushed to secure his signature.

The 21-year-old had also emerged as a potential option for Arsenal late in the transfer window. However, Mikel Arteta reportedly decided against pursuing the deal, allowing Sunderland to win the race for one of their major summer targets.

Arsenal were offered the opportunity to sign Fofana as they searched for another attacking option following the departures of Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli.

Julian Alvarez had been their priority, but the Atletico Madrid forward ultimately remained in Spain. That led Arsenal to consider alternatives, including Fofana.

However, Arteta reportedly had reservations over whether the Belgium international was immediately ready for the physical demands of Premier League football.

There was also a difference over the structure of a possible transfer. Arsenal would have preferred a loan with an option to buy, while Lyon wanted a permanent deal as they looked to raise funds.

Sunderland had no such hesitation and moved to complete a deal worth around £30m.

Fofana has now explained that Sunderland's determination to sign him played an important role in his decision.

“I’m very happy and excited to be here and I can’t wait to get started,” Fofana said.

“I spoke with a lot of people before coming here and they gave me the feeling they really wanted me. It’s been a busy 48 hours, but I can’t wait to get going.

“I’ve already played in the Europa League and I hope I can bring that experience here.”

His arrival represents a significant addition for Regis Le Bris, who now has another quick and creative attacking option available to him.

Arsenal were not Sunderland's only competition for Fofana.

Crystal Palace were also involved in the battle for his signature during the closing stages of the window, creating a late race for the Lyon winger.

Sunderland ultimately came out on top and Fofana is already looking forward to showing supporters what he can offer.

“I am a creative person and player and I hope people watch me with joy,” he said.

“The Premier League is a new experience for me, so I hope it’s a great season. I know with this squad we can do something special.”

Fofana's signing adds further quality to a Sunderland squad that has undergone considerable work during the summer.

Kevin Danso and Angulo are among the other additions made as Sunderland look to combine established European experience with younger players capable of developing further.

Fofana fits firmly into that approach. Despite being only 21, he arrives with experience of European competition and now has the opportunity to establish himself in the Premier League.

Missing out on Arsenal may have closed one door, but Sunderland have given the Belgian the prominent role and opportunity he was looking for.

Fofana’s attention now turns to establishing himself quickly in Regis Le Bris’ Sunderland side following his deadline-day arrival.

The 21-year-old will be hoping to translate the creativity and attacking threat he showed at Lyon to the Premier League, with Sunderland’s upcoming trip to Brentford potentially providing an early opportunity to make his mark.

After Arsenal and Crystal Palace both considered moves for him, Fofana now has the chance to show Sunderland were right to make such a significant investment in his potential.