Lyon reach agreement to sign Ivorian midfielder Youssouf Fofana on loan from AC Milan

Olympique Lyonnais have reached an agreement to sign Ivory Coast international Youssouf Fofana from AC Milan on a season-long loan.

The 27-year-old midfielder is set to return to Ligue 1 after Lyon emerged ahead of competition for his signature, including interest from Hull City, according to RMC Sport.

Lyon will pay AC Milan a €2m loan fee and will have the option to make the move permanent for €12m at the end of the season.

Fofana returns to France

Fofana joined AC Milan from Monaco in the summer of 2024 for €26m and went on to make 88 appearances for the Serie A club.

His return to France will provide Lyon with an experienced midfielder who already knows the demands of Ligue 1.

The Ivory Coast international had attracted interest from several clubs as the transfer window entered its final stages, but Lyon now look set to complete the deal.

More changes expected at Lyon

Fofana’s arrival comes as Lyon prepare for further movement within their squad before the transfer window closes.

Another midfielder, Malick Fofana, appears set to leave the club, with Crystal Palace reportedly moving ahead of Sunderland in the race for the Belgium international.

Lyon are also expected to lose Ainsley Maitland-Niles, who is set to join Everton.

Fofana’s arrival therefore represents an important addition for Les Gones as they reshape their squad, while the Ivorian will have the opportunity to revive his Ligue 1 career after two seasons in Italy.