Sunderland win race for Malick Fofana after late Crystal Palace twist

Sunderland have completed the signing of Belgium international Malick Fofana from Olympique Lyonnais in a deal worth €30m, with potential bonuses capable of taking the total value beyond €35m.

The 21-year-old winger has agreed to continue his career in the Premier League with the Black Cats after a dramatic sequence of events on the final day of the transfer window.

Fofana initially appeared close to joining Sunderland, but Crystal Palace were later reported to have moved into contention. Sunderland ultimately regained control of the transfer by improving the terms offered to the player’s representatives, helping persuade Fofana to follow through with his original choice.

The deal was officially announced on Sunderland’s Instagram account. Fofana has signed a contract that will keep him at the club until 2031, marking a significant step in the career of a player regarded as one of the most promising young members of Lyon’s squad.

Born in Belgium and of Guinean origin, Fofana joined Olympique Lyonnais in January 2024 from La Gantoise. He quickly established himself as an important emerging talent after arriving in France, and his performances led to recognition at international level with Belgium.

His move to Sunderland represents his first major switch since joining Lyon and gives the Premier League club a young attacking option with considerable potential. The transfer fee is listed at €30m, while additional performance-related bonuses could increase the final cost to more than €35m.

Fofana’s estimated market value is also €30m. During his time with Olympique Lyonnais, he was reported to have earned an annual salary of €2,730,000, equivalent to 1,774,500,000 FCFA.

Sunderland’s next fixture will be their third match of the English league season, when they face Brentford. According to odds provided by 1xbet, Sunderland are priced at 5.40 to win, a draw is rated at 4.00, and Brentford are listed at 1.56.

The match will provide the latest opportunity for Sunderland to assess their squad following the arrival of Fofana, although the timing of the transfer means the winger’s involvement will depend on his registration and the manager’s selection.