Malick Fofana transfer saga: How Sunderland won battle for Lyon’s Belgian midfielder?

Fofana’s transfer saga was one of the highlights of deadline day.

Amid all the frantic dealings on transfer deadline day on Tuesday, the Malick Fofana transfer saga was one that dominated the footballing headlines. The 21-year-old Belgian midfielder, who plies his trade in Ligue 1 with Lyon, became the target of a tussle between Premier League sides Sunderland and Crystal Palace.

Fofana, considered one of the most exciting young wide men in European football, looked set to join the Black Cats before the Eagles almost completed a ‘hijack’. However, it seems that Sunderland have won the race for the former KAA Gent youngster.

Let’s take a look at the step-by-step process involving Fofana’s dealings with Sunderland and Crystal Palace.

Also Read: Who is Malick Fofana? Sunderland’s new signing from Lyon

Sunderland swoop in after Arsenal’s hesitation

The Malick Fofana transfer saga started when Arsenal, led by sporting director Andrea Berta, expressed late interest in acquiring the Belgian winger. However, after making initial inquiries, the Gunners hesitated in meeting Lyon’s firm £30 million asking price and withdrew from the race.

With the Premier League champions out of the picture, Sunderland capitalised on the opening. The Black Cats moved swiftly, agreeing a total financial package of £30 million with Lyon. Personal terms were sorted with Fofana, who was set to sign a lucrative five-year contract at the Stadium of Light, and a medical was booked.

Crystal Palace attempt hijack

Just as the paperwork was being finalised with Sunderland, Crystal Palace attempted to hijack the deal. The South London club submitted an improved bid of £33.5 million, and Lyon promptly accepted the offer.

This led to a confusing scenario within Fofana’s camp as the player and his representatives found themselves with two private jets booked and waiting on the tarmac. One was scheduled for London, and the other for Newcastle, the closest major airport to Sunderland.

Attracted by the prospect of living and playing in the English capital, Fofana reportedly decided to board the flight to London and complete his move to Crystal Palace. However, unwilling to concede defeat, the Sunderland board launched a counterattack.

The Wearside club matched Palace’s £33.5 million transfer fee to appease Lyon. They also offered a significantly improved commission to Fofana’s representatives.

Malick Fofana set to join Sunderland

This improved commission proved to be the decisive factor in the transfer saga. After accepting Sunderland’s revised terms, Fofana boarded the flight from Lyon to Newcastle. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace representatives were left in the dark about the change in plans and the player’s whereabouts.

Ultimately, Malick Fofana touched down in England to finalise his medical and complete the move to the Stadium of Light. The Belgian will join Sunderland in a £33.5 million deal, making him the club’s most expensive signing in history.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.