Arsenal open Malick Fofana talks in search for Gabriel Martinelli replacement

Updated: 31 Aug 2026 17:53 BST | 3 min read

Tom Weber | Writer

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Arsenal are considering a late-window move for Lyon winger Malick Fofana in their search for a replacement for Al-Hilal-bound Gabriel Martinelli.

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The Gunners are looking to bring in at least one more forward before tomorrow's deadline after agreeing deals to sell Martinelli to Al-Hilal and Gabriel Jesus to Barcelona.

Julian Alvarez remains Mikel Arteta's top target, and it is believed that Arsenal would be able to reach an agreement with Atletico Madrid, but the player has yet to greenlight a move to England. The Argentina international did not particularly enjoy his previous spell at Man City.

Current ETV

Malick Fofana

F, M (L)

Lyon

Malick Fofana

F, M (L)

Lyon

ETV Range

€27.5M - €33.7M

Arsenal are exploring the market for possible alternatives. Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye is one option that is being actively considered, according to reports in his native Senegal. Meanwhile, RMC and The Athletic report that Fofana has also emerged on the club's radar.

The Belgium international is among Europe's most highly regarded young wide players, and Arsenal believe that he could be a "market opportunity" after Lyon failed to qualify for the league phase of the Champions League.

Arsenal open Fofana talks

The Gunners have enquired into a possible deal for the 21-year-old, with Arteta understood to have already personally spoken to the forward. Fofana is open to the move, but he also has other options, including some where he may be guaranteed a starting role.

At Arsenal, the young winger would have to compete for a spot with new signing Christos Tzolis, who has looked incredibly promising in his first few games for the North London giants.

Crystal Palace and AS Roma have both considered moves for Fofana. However, the player reportedly turned down the former despite a club-to-club agreement, while the latter have struggled to complete a deal to date.

Fofana has bagged 19 goals in 83 appearances for Lyon, but Arsenal are currently unwilling to match Lyon's €40 million asking price, Fabrizio Romano claims. Discussions between clubs are in full swing to see if common ground on a fee can be found.

Chelsea and Everton were among the Premier League clubs to show an interest in Fofana last summer. English suitors have been slower to emerge this year as the youngster missed most of last season with an ankle injury.