Liverpool ‘can strike major Chelsea blow’ as Fofana transfer details emerge
Lyon ace Malick Fofana is attracting plenty of Premier League transfer interest, including from Liverpool, in this summer’s window.
The Belgian international has had a breakout season in France, scoring 11 goals and providing six assists in 41 games in all competitions.
Fofana, 20, especially shone in the Europa League, contributing eight goal involvements in 10 appearances as the French outfit reached the quarter-finals before losing to Manchester United.
The winger now has admirers from the Premier League, and Liverpool appear to be among those interested in signing the exciting youngster.
Liverpool begin talks with Fofana’s agents amid Chelsea approach
Chelsea and United are also in for Fofana, but Arne Slot‘s side have made an early move to secure the Belgian’s services.
L’Equipe (17 June) reports that Liverpool have begun discussions with the winger’s agents Roc Nation.
The report also claims that Chelsea have made contact with Lyon’s leaders to register their interest.
The Blues have yet to make an offer, and the exchange with the French giants is said to have been informal.
Lyon are expected to demand at least £42.6million for Fofana to depart, which was the fee they received for Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain just two years ago.
Liverpool need to move fast to secure Lyon star
The Reds have made a great start to the transfer window, with the arrival of Jeremie Frimpong and the proposed incomings of Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez.
Liverpool are usually quiet at the start of the window, with last summer only seeing Federico Chiesa arrive at Anfield in the final few days.
But this summer, Slot’s side are showing intent and proactivity, something they will need if they wish to bring Fofana to Merseyside.
Both Liverpool and Chelsea have the means to afford the youngster, and the Blues have shown they aren’t afraid to splash the cash on young talent.
However, the project at the Premier League champions could be the deciding factor given the young superstars making their way to Anfield, but only if Liverpool are serious about their interest.
And if they are indeed serious, it makes perfect sense to move now and strike a major blow to Chelsea’s transfer hopes in the process.