Report: Liverpool eyeing move for 17-G/A rising star, player has a soft spot for the Reds

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Liverpool have been linked with a potential transfer move for Lyon winger Malick Fofana as they seek to replace Luis Diaz, who recently departed for Bayern Munich. The 20-year-old Belgian attacker has been monitored internally by Liverpool since June, but as of now, no official bids or talks have been made, with the club prioritizing a deal for striker Alexander Isak first. Fofana is seen as a long-term investment with the pace and technical skills to succeed in the Premier League, potentially adding unpredictability to Liverpool’s attack, which currently depends heavily on Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo. He scored 11 goals and provided 6 assists last season and is valued at around £35 million, a fee Liverpool can afford.

Despite their interest, Fofana recently decided to stay at Lyon for the current season, citing that he has not yet found the right project to advance his career. He joined Lyon from Gent in 2024 and has a contract until 2028. Starting the current campaign well, he has already contributed with an assist and a goal early in the season. Reports indicate that Fofana prefers to wait for the next transfer window to find a club that better matches his ambitions.

Previously, other Premier League clubs such as Nottingham Forest and Everton had shown strong interest in Fofana. Forest had a bid accepted by Lyon but failed to agree personal terms with the player, leading to Everton entering advanced negotiations. Liverpool could hijack the deal given their Champions League football offer and higher profile, but Fofana’s current decision is to remain in France.

Fofana himself has addressed the Liverpool rumors, expressing focus on performing well for Lyon this season and confidence that his talents will eventually be noticed. He acknowledged the Premier League is full of big clubs but is not rushing a move and is committed to proving his abilities on the pitch first.

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