Arsenal lead race to sign Malick Fofana ahead of transfer deadline day

Arsenal have moved to the front of the race to sign Belgium international of Guinean descent Malick Fofana from Lyon, with the Premier League club exploring a late move for the 21-year-old winger.

According to L’Equipe, Arsenal are in advanced discussions with Fofana’s representatives, while manager Mikel Arteta has approved the potential transfer.

However, the Gunners have yet to make a formal offer to Lyon, with the French club valuing their prized asset at €40m.

Arsenal searching for a left-winger

Arsenal’s interest comes after the club sanctioned Gabriel Martinelli’s transfer to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.

Fofana has emerged as a potential replacement for the Brazilian, with both players represented by Roc Nation.

Arsenal are expected to decide whether to make a formal approach before the transfer window closes, while Lyon are increasingly hopeful that the English club will make a concrete offer.

The Gunners face Aston Villa in the Premier League on Monday evening, adding to the limited time available for negotiations before Deadline Day.

Lyon need to sell

Lyon are under financial pressure and are looking to raise funds before the transfer window closes.

The club’s failure to qualify for the Champions League has increased the need to generate transfer income, with Fofana considered their most valuable asset.

The French side have therefore set an asking price of €40m for the winger.

Sunderland and Hull City had previously shown interest in Fofana, but Arsenal have now moved ahead of those clubs in the race for his signature.

Fofana making strong return

Fofana joined Lyon from Belgian club La Gantoise in January 2024 and quickly became an important member of their squad.

The Aalst-born winger missed almost the whole of last season through injury but has returned strongly in the opening weeks of the 2026-27 campaign.

He has scored twice in six appearances across all competitions so far this season.

With Arsenal yet to submit an official bid, Fofana’s future remains unresolved, but the Belgium international has emerged as one of the key names to watch before Deadline Day.