Everton in Advanced Talks to Sign Lyon Winger Malick Fofana

Everton are in advanced negotiations to sign Malick Fofana, a 20-year-old Belgian winger currently at Lyon, with the club having made an initial offer of around £31.4 million (€36 million including bonuses) which Lyon has rejected, demanding a fixed fee of €40 million. Despite this, talks remain ongoing between Everton and Lyon, with Everton also negotiating personal terms with Fofana to secure his signature quickly and avoid competition from clubs like Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea. Fofana, who joined Lyon from Gent in January 2024, has impressed with 15 goals in 62 appearances and recently made his senior Belgium debut. The transfer is part of Everton's efforts to strengthen their attacking options, alongside recent signings such as Thierno Barry and Mark Travers, and a pending deal for Bayern Munich defender Adam Aznou. Everton’s manager David Moyes aims to bolster the squad depth and creativity, notably on the left side, where Fofana and Aznou could form a dynamic partnership. The transfer window activity marks a significant step forward for Everton after a slow start to their recruitment this summer.