Tottenham fight Chelsea and Newcastle for £40m Lyon star with 11 goals last season
Tottenham Hotspur Enter Race for Ligue 1 Sensation Malick Fofana Amid Premier League Scramble
Tottenham Hotspur are intensifying their pursuit of attacking reinforcements this summer, and their latest target is one of Ligue 1’s breakout stars of the 2024–25 season. The North London club have reportedly set their sights on highly-rated Belgian winger Malick Fofana, following a standout campaign with Olympique Lyonnais in which the youngster registered 17 goal contributions.
According to a new report from ESPN, Fofana has caught the eye of multiple Premier League clubs, with Tottenham among six English sides vying for his signature. The 20-year-old winger impressed last season by scoring 11 goals and providing six assists across all competitions, solidifying himself as one of the most exciting attacking prospects in France.
Tottenham’s Growing Attacking Ambitions Under Thomas Frank
With new head coach Thomas Frank now at the helm, Tottenham appear to be focusing heavily on revamping their front line. Frank, known for getting the most out of dynamic and energetic forwards during his time at Brentford, is reportedly keen to add more creativity and explosiveness to Spurs’ attack.
Over the past few weeks, Spurs have been linked with several attacking talents, including Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, and Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze. There have also been persistent links to RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons, though competition for the Dutchman’s signature remains fierce.
Now, it seems Malick Fofana is the latest name on the club’s shortlist, with Tottenham believed to be serious contenders for his services. However, they are far from alone in the race.
Six-Way Premier League Battle for Fofana
ESPN reports that no fewer than six Premier League clubs have expressed interest in Fofana. Alongside Tottenham, Chelsea, Newcastle United, Everton, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Fulham are all said to be monitoring the player closely.
Chelsea have already made an initial enquiry regarding Fofana’s availability, and sources indicate they were quoted a fee in the region of £40–45 million. While some of the interested parties reportedly see that valuation as steep given Fofana’s relative inexperience, Lyon are standing firm.
The French side believe the price tag is justified due to the winger’s immense potential and rapid development. The 20-year-old has become a key figure in their squad, and his maturity and end product have drawn attention not only from English clubs but also from other European outfits.
Lyon’s Financial Needs Forcing a Sale
Despite Fofana’s preference to stay at Lyon for at least one more season to continue his growth, the club’s financial situation may force their hand. Lyon are reportedly under pressure to raise funds to stabilize their finances, and Fofana’s market value makes him one of their most sellable assets.
As a result, the Ligue 1 club are actively considering offers for the Belgium international, even if it means parting ways with him earlier than planned. This scenario has opened the door for Tottenham and others to make their move this summer.
What Fofana Could Offer Spurs
Should Tottenham win the race for Fofana, they would be landing a versatile wide player with pace, flair, and a keen eye for goal. The youngster is capable of operating on either flank, though he typically features on the right, cutting inside onto his stronger left foot.
His ability to beat defenders one-on-one, combined with an improving end product, makes him a tantalizing option for Spurs, who are looking to build a more dynamic attacking unit for the 2025–26 Premier League season.
Conclusion
Tottenham’s interest in Malick Fofana is a clear sign of the club’s intent to invest in young, high-upside talent as they reshape the squad under Thomas Frank. However, with multiple Premier League rivals circling and Lyon unlikely to drop their £40–45 million asking price, the North Londoners will need to act decisively if they hope to secure his signature.
As the summer transfer window progresses, Spurs fans can expect more developments on the Fofana front—and possibly further attacking arrivals to bolster the team’s firepower.