Everton Plot Move for £45m Lyon Star Malick Fofana in Bid to Outpace Chelsea in Transfer Race
Everton could be on the verge of disrupting Chelsea’s summer transfer plans as they reportedly enter the race for highly-rated Lyon winger Malick Fofana, a player valued at £45 million. With new ownership ambitions and a reshaped recruitment strategy in motion, the Toffees appear ready to make a statement signing as they prepare for the 2025/26 campaign.
Following the departure of Jesper Lindstrom and Jack Harrison, Everton are in urgent need of reinforcements on the flanks. It’s an area that was visibly lacking throughout the previous season, with David Moyes, who returned to the club in January, already identifying the right wing as a priority position to strengthen. The club’s attacking depth was exposed further when rising star Iliman Ndiaye suffered an untimely injury, leaving Moyes with limited options in the final third.
With the Friedkin Group now overseeing Everton’s operations and keen to make an early impact in the transfer market, there is a clear desire to bring in players who not only elevate the quality of the squad but also align with the club’s evolving identity. However, the club’s leadership remains cautious about signing players purely for their name value. For instance, Simon Jordan recently cast doubt on Everton’s reported interest in Jack Grealish, suggesting the flamboyant Manchester City forward might not fit Moyes’ culture-first philosophy due to concerns over his character and discipline.
In contrast, Malick Fofana presents a more balanced profile—young, exciting, and with plenty of upside. According to a report by ESPN, both Everton and Chelsea have been monitoring the 20-year-old Belgian talent, with the latter club having already held preliminary talks with Lyon. Despite interest from several Premier League outfits, Everton’s pursuit of Fofana could take a unique twist due to the club’s recent dealings with Lyon owner John Textor.
While Textor’s attempt to purchase Everton ultimately collapsed, the two clubs managed to establish a working relationship in the process. The loan move of Orel Mangala from Lyon to Everton last season laid the groundwork for further business, and it’s believed this connection could be leveraged again in their efforts to sign Fofana. With Lyon needing to generate funds this summer, they may be more receptive to negotiating with clubs they’ve recently done business with—something that could give Everton an edge.
Fofana himself, while reportedly content at Lyon, may be tempted by the lure of Premier League football, particularly if guaranteed regular playing time. Chelsea, with their abundance of wide attacking talent, might struggle to offer the same level of first-team opportunity that Everton can promise. This could prove crucial in swaying the player’s decision.
Everton are making it clear that they intend to prioritise attacking acquisitions this summer. Their success with Ndiaye, who made an instant impact before his injury, has reinforced their belief in investing in dynamic, forward-thinking players who can grow with the club. Fofana fits that mould perfectly—quick, technically gifted, and with a growing reputation in Ligue 1.
Still, competition remains fierce. In addition to Chelsea, several other top-flight English clubs are said to be keeping tabs on Fofana’s situation. Everton will need to act decisively—and likely make a compelling financial and sporting case—to secure the deal.
As the summer window heats up, Fofana could become one of the most sought-after young players in Europe, and Everton’s interest marks a bold move that signals their desire to challenge higher up the Premier League table in the coming season. With ambition, connections, and a clear need, the Toffees may just have what it takes to pull off a surprise and beat Chelsea to the punch.