Paul Joyce: Everton now eyeing another winger alongside Fofana
Everton Eyeing Malick Fofana as Key Summer Signing, but More Wingers Expected at Goodison
Everton are making moves in the summer transfer market, with Lyon’s exciting young winger Malick Fofana emerging as a major target, according to reports. However, the Belgian talent is just one part of a broader recruitment plan, as the Toffees look to bring in at least two new wide players to bolster their attacking options ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
Renowned journalist Paul Joyce of The Times reports that Everton are pursuing Fofana as a priority addition to their squad. Manager David Moyes, now firmly focused on rebuilding his side’s creative and attacking depth, is keen to add dynamism and end product to a team that has lacked sharpness in wide areas.
Talks between Everton and French club Lyon are said to be ongoing, with Fabrizio Romano confirming that negotiations are in an advanced stage. An official bid has reportedly been submitted, and while personal terms have not yet been finalized, discussions are underway on both sides, suggesting a deal could be edging closer.
Not Just Fofana – Everton Want Another Winger Too
While Fofana is clearly high on Everton’s wish list, he’s not the only wide player the club are chasing. The Merseyside outfit are intent on bringing in two wingers this summer as part of an overhaul of their flanks. The departures of Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom following the expiration of their loan spells have left a significant gap in the squad.
Harrison has returned to Leeds United, while Lindstrom is back with Napoli, and both players failed to impress during their time at Goodison Park. Lindstrom managed only a single assist across 29 Premier League appearances, which came in a 1-1 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers in March. Harrison fared only slightly better, registering one goal and one assist in 38 appearances, with his goal ironically being set up by Lindstrom in the same game.
That underwhelming output has underlined the need for higher-quality wide players who can consistently contribute goals and assists. Moyes is said to be determined to address this area, especially as the club aims to avoid another relegation scrap and push toward the top half of the table.
Fofana’s Rising Star and Potential Impact
Despite only joining Lyon in January 2024, Malick Fofana has quickly made a name for himself in Ligue 1. At just 20 years old, the Belgian winger has already chalked up 13 goal contributions in 46 league matches – an impressive return that reflects his sharpness, technical ability, and attacking mindset.
Fofana’s profile is exactly what Everton are looking for – young, hungry, and brimming with potential. He is known for his pace, dribbling, and creativity in the final third, all qualities that the current Everton squad has sorely lacked on the wings.
Should the move go through, Fofana would be stepping into the footsteps of several fellow Belgians who have left a strong legacy at Everton. Romelu Lukaku’s goal-scoring exploits and Marouane Fellaini’s physical presence remain fond memories for the club’s supporters, while Kevin Mirallas also had impactful spells on the wing during his time at Goodison.
Rebuilding the Flanks at Goodison Park
Everton’s current wing options remain thin. While Iliman Ndiaye made a notable impression in his debut campaign with nine league goals, and Dwight McNeil provided 10 goal involvements in just 21 home games, the club desperately need more firepower and consistency out wide – especially on the right-hand side.
Fofana could help fill that void and offer balance to the attack, but a second signing in that department would allow Moyes to rotate effectively and inject competition into the squad.
With talks progressing and the club clearly active in the market, Everton fans will be hopeful that new arrivals can help spark a revival. If Fofana becomes the first of several key signings this window, it could mark a turning point in the Toffees’ efforts to rebuild under Moyes’ second tenure.