Franco-Malian midfielder Youssouf Fofana set to join Lyon on loan

France international of Malian descent Youssouf Fofana is closing in on a return to Ligue 1, with Lyon expected to capture the midfielder on loan from AC Milan.

According to reports, negotiations between Milan and Lyon have reached an advanced stage, with the proposed deal expected to include an option to buy.

The 27-year-old midfielder has reportedly been informed that he does not feature prominently in AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim’s plans for the new season. Fofana has subsequently been left out of Milan’s matchday squad for their opening two Serie A fixtures.

With limited opportunities expected at San Siro, the French international is now on the verge of returning to the French top flight, where he previously established himself as one of the league’s most reliable midfielders.

Fofana joined Milan from AS Monaco in the summer of 2024 in a deal worth around €26 million. During his time with the Rossoneri, he became a regular member of the squad and went on to make 88 appearances for the Italian giants across competitions.

However, his situation has changed ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, with Milan now prepared to allow him to leave on loan.

Lyon have emerged as the midfielder’s likely destination, and the club are understood to see Fofana as an experienced addition who could strengthen their midfield.

A return to Ligue 1 could also provide Fofana with an opportunity to revive his career and secure regular first-team football after falling out of favour at Milan.

The potential arrival of Fofana could, however, lead to changes within Lyon’s midfield. The French club may consider allowing one of their existing defensive-minded midfielders to leave before the transfer window closes.

Tanner Tessmann is reportedly one of the players whose future could be affected by Fofana’s arrival. The American midfielder has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, and his departure could create room in the squad for the former Monaco star.

For now, negotiations between Milan and Lyon remain ongoing, but with discussions described as advanced, Fofana appears increasingly likely to begin a new chapter in France.

The proposed loan with an option to buy would give Lyon the opportunity to assess the midfielder over the course of the season before deciding whether to make his move permanent.