CONFIRMED: Arsenal agree deal with Malick Fofana

Confirmed

Steve Kay | Editor

Malick Fofana has agreed personal terms with Arsenal as talks continue with Lyon over a possible deal, FootballTransfers can reveal.

The 21-year-old is keen on a move to the Emirates Stadium but the two clubs are yet to agree a fee for the Belgium international.

FootballTransfers understands Ligue 1 side Lyon want €40million (£34.2m) to part ways with the winger - but Arsenal value him at less than that figure.

STATS

Malick Fofana

F, M (L)

Lyon

Malick Fofana

F, M (L)

Lyon

All Tournaments

2026/27

• 6

  Games

• 2

  Goals

• 0

  Assists

View all stats

Premier League champions Arsenal have identified Fofana as an attractive market opportunity as they look to strengthen their attack on Deadline Day.

The forward has become available after Lyon missed out on Champions League qualification by losing to Turkish giants Fenerbahce in qualifying.

Arsenal are set to become light in attack with Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus poised to leave north London on Tuesday.

Brazil international Martinelli is on the verge of joining Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal in a lucrative deal worth €70m (£59.9m). Meanwhile, Jesus is on the cusp of moving to Barcelona after the La Liga champions agreed a surprise €10m (£8.57m) deal with Arsenal.

Arsenal remain in contact with Atletico for Alvarez

In addition, Arsenal have identified Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez as their dream signing and FootballTransfers understands all parties remain in contact.

However, time is running out to complete a deal for the 26-year-old, who is regarded as one of most complete forwards in the world.

Barcelona were also keen to land Alvarez but have decided to sign Jesus after Atletico insisted they will not do business with their Spanish rivals.

Fofana missed out on Belgium World Cup squad

Fofana joined Lyon from Belgian outfit Gent in January 2024 for a reported €17m (£14.56m) plus €5m (£4.28m) in add-ons.

He has registered 19 goals and eight assists in all competitions for Lyon, helping them reach the French Cup final in 2023-24.

Fofana has also earned five caps for Belgium, scoring once, but he was not included in their squad for the 2026 World Cup this summer.