Liverpool and Chelsea to submit bids for Belgian-Guinean winger Malick Fofana after demotion

Liverpool and Chelsea are set to go head-to-head in the race to sign highly-rated Lyon winger Malick Fofana, following the French club’s dramatic relegation from Ligue 1 due to financial non-compliance.

Fofana, who is of Guinean descent and represents Belgium at youth level, has emerged as one of Lyon’s standout assets and is widely expected to leave the club this summer.

The 20-year-old enjoyed a promising debut season in France, registering five goals and four assists after arriving from Belgian side Gent last year.

Lyon’s demotion—confirmed by France’s financial watchdog, the DNCG—has triggered a likely exodus of talent as the club.

Fofana’s name has quickly risen to the top of several Premier League wish lists, with Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Everton, Brighton and Newcastle United all reportedly interested.

Both Liverpool manager Arne Slot and Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca are said to be particularly keen, viewing the dynamic winger as an ideal fit for their tactical systems.

Chelsea are currently in the market for wide options following Jadon Sancho’s exit and Mykhailo Mudryk’s suspension, while Liverpool are preparing for the likely departure of Federico Chiesa.

Even at a reported £45 million valuation, Fofana is considered a bargain given his ceiling and technical ability.

Should both clubs proceed with formal offers in the coming weeks, the teenager could find himself at the centre of one of the Premier League’s most intriguing transfer battles.