Fabrizio Romano: Everton in ‘advanced talks' to hijack Liverpool's move for €50m forward
Advanced Talks Underway for Belgian Talent
Everton are pressing forward in their pursuit of Olympique Lyonnais winger Malick Fofana, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Talks are now at an advanced stage, with direct contact established between the Toffees and the French club over a potential summer move. The 20-year-old Belgian international appears poised to leave Lyon this window, as the club navigates financial pressures following their reinstatement to Ligue 1 by the DNCG.
Fofana, who has already attracted interest from Liverpool and Bayern Munich, is one of Lyon's more valuable assets and now sits firmly on Everton's radar. The Merseyside club are looking to bolster their wide options and see the versatile attacker as a key addition ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
Relegation Reversal Spurs Lyon Fire Sale
Lyon's financial constraints have become a central theme of their summer business. The club's reprieve from relegation came with strict conditions from the DNCG, requiring them to raise funds through player sales. Fofana, whose development at OL has not gone unnoticed across Europe, now finds himself at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war.
Personal Terms and Player Preference Still Pending
While Everton have established contact with Fofana's representatives, personal terms are yet to be finalised. A fee had reportedly been agreed between Lyon and Nottingham Forest earlier this window, but Fofana declined the move. His willingness to join Everton remains uncertain.
The Toffees now face a crucial period in convincing the player of their project, especially with clubs like Liverpool and Bayern also showing interest.
Strategic Move or Risky Gamble?
At just 20 years of age, Fofana would represent both a long-term investment and a potential game-changer for David Moyes' side. Everton are in urgent need of pace and creativity in wide areas – two qualities the Belgian has shown in flashes during his time in Ligue 1 and on the European stage. Whether they can land their man may depend on how compelling a pitch they present in the coming days.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From an Everton fan's point of view, the move for Malick Fofana feels like a bold but sensible step toward modernising a squad that's cried out for dynamism. The club has lacked real flair on the flanks since Richarlison's departure, and Fofana, with his ability to beat players and break lines, could be the injection of energy needed.
However, there are understandable reservations. Fofana is young, largely unproven in top-flight football outside of France, and might need time to adapt to the physicality of the Premier League. Fans will remember past gambles on potential – names like Moise Kean and Jean-Philippe Gbamin – which didn't quite work out. That said, this feels like a different scenario. Fofana turned down Forest, which suggests he's making decisions based on football, not finances.
There's also the question of whether David Moyes can fully utilise a player like Fofana, who thrives in a more expansive system. Moyes' teams often lean on structure over flair, but with the club aiming to progress, perhaps this is a sign of stylistic evolution.
If Everton can seal the deal and give him the platform to grow, it could be one of the smarter deals of the summer. But if he opts for a club like Bayern or Liverpool, fans will understand – and perhaps rue – another opportunity missed.
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