Crystal Palace attempting to hijack Sunderland’s Malick Fofana deal after late transfer twist

Crystal Palace are working to hijack Sunderland’s move for Lyon winger Malick Fofana after agreeing a deal with the French club for the highly rated Belgium international.

Sunderland had reached an agreement earlier on Monday to sign the 21-year-old in a deal worth more than €30 million (£25.7 million), including bonuses. However, Palace have now matched the agreement with Lyon and are attempting to derail the Black Cats’ move.

The late intervention has thrown Fofana’s transfer into fresh uncertainty, with Palace now pushing to secure the winger despite Sunderland having advanced significantly in negotiations.

Sage reunion key to Palace push

Palace manager Pierre Sage is understood to have played a significant role in the London club’s decision to enter the race for Fofana.

Sage previously coached Lyon between 2023 and 2025, when Fofana joined the Ligue 1 club. His familiarity with the young winger is believed to have strengthened Palace’s interest as they seek to beat Sunderland to his signature.

Fofana had already been given permission to travel for a medical ahead of completing a move to Sunderland.

The proposed transfer would have seen him sign a five-year contract with Sunderland, with an option to extend the agreement by another 12 months.

Palace’s late move, however, has changed the situation and could leave Sunderland facing disappointment after appearing to have secured the player.

Arsenal also monitored Fofana

The developing transfer saga comes after Arsenal considered making their own move for Fofana on Sunday.

The Gunners have monitored the winger for some time, with Fofana also having spoken with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

Despite that interest, Sunderland appeared to have won the race after agreeing terms with Lyon and progressing to the stage where the player was expected to undergo his medical.

Palace’s intervention has now opened the door for another twist, with the club seeking to use its agreement with Lyon and Sage’s previous relationship with Fofana to complete the deal.

The 21-year-old has emerged as one of Lyon’s most prized young players, and his potential move to England is now set for a dramatic conclusion as Palace attempt to snatch him from Sunderland’s grasp.