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Arsenal plot swoop to sign Lyon star Malick Fofana

By on July 21, 2025

Malick Fofana Lyon

Arsenal are reportedly planning to make a move to sign Olympique Lyonnais forward Malick Fofana, as per Caught Offside.

After finishing second in the Premier League and going trophyless once again last term, it was thought that the Gunners would prioritise bolstering the centre-forward position this summer.

However, with the squad now on their pre-season tour in Asia and just three weeks remaining until the new campaign kicks off, Arsenal have yet to secure a prolific goal-scorer.

The North London club have signed Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, and Noni Madueke by splashing big money this summer, with Cristhian Mosquera to follow.

Mikel Arteta’s side have prioritised signing Viktor Gyokeres for the centre-forward position and remain in negotiations with Sporting CP to seal the deal, with the player keen on moving to the Emirates Stadium.

Along with that, Arsenal also want a new left winger as Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard displayed average performances last campaign. Eberechi Eze has been suggested as the Gunners’ priority target to upgrade this position.

Fofana to Arsenal

However, Caught Offside state that Eze isn’t the only name on the North London club’s wishlist as Fofana is also on their radar. They are ‘keen’ on signing him and could opt to make a concrete approach over the coming weeks.

Lyon are in a difficult situation financially and need to balance the books by selling players, so they would be open to cashing-in on Fofana. However, they won’t let him leave for cheap and want up to £52m.

Fofana showcased his qualities last term, so he has attracted a lot of attention this summer with Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest, and Aston Villa also keen on signing him.

Furthermore, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, and Napoli are in this race as well. Napoli are even prepared to spend around £26m for him, while Liverpool have held talks with the player’s representatives over this deal.

Fofana is a left winger by trait and could be a shrewd acquisition for Arsenal with a view to the long-term future if they purchase him. He scored 11 goals and registered five assists in all competitions last term.

However, he is still young and is just 169m in height, so he might take time to settle down with the physicality of the Premier League.