Liverpool join battle for underrated Chelsea transfer target

Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and another top European club are all very interested in signing Lyon’s breakout winger Malick Fofana, RMC Sport reports. Olympique Marseille have also made enquiries, but their chances are slim given the heavy competition from European heavyweights, signaling Liverpool’s new approach to left wing reinforcements—and it puts pressure on Chelsea.

How Fofana emerged on Chelsea’s radar

Chelsea signed Jamie Bynoe-Gittens this summer and are exploring further winger additions, yet Fofana remains the type of undervalued gem they’ve pursued quietly.

Originally overshadowed by Manchester City’s headline-making Lyon signing Rayan Cherki, Fofana has flown under the radar while quietly becoming one of the most exciting young left wingers in France.

For Chelsea, acquiring such a player would align with their philosophy of combining youth, skill, and resale potential.

Liverpool swoop driven by Diaz uncertainty

Liverpool’s interest makes sense too. With Luis Díaz’s potential departure still unresolved after Barcelona’s recent show of interest, Liverpool need a capable left winger ready to make an immediate impact

Liverpool are scouting Fofana as a long-term alternative to Anthony Gordon, and Lyon’s ongoing financial struggles could see the price settle around £40 million, far cheaper than marquee options.

Fofana brings explosive pace, dribbling flair, and end product—11 goals and six assists last season while helping Lyon reach the Europa League quarterfinals. He fills a profile Liverpool love: dynamic, teenager-turned-elite talent with room to grow—and he could complement Mohamed Salah perfectly.

Bayern and Marseille also circling

It’s not just Premier League giants in the race. Bayern Munich have also expressed serious interest, while Olympique Marseille have reached out to Lyon, though their financial limitations make them outsiders in landing the winger.

This competition makes Lyon less likely to settle, especially with a rumoured €60 million valuation being floated by clubs like Bayern.

Why Fofana is Liverpool’s next-door dream

Rodrygo Goes was always the dream signing on the left wing, but his price tag and his own possible reticence at leaving Real Madrid make him unrealistic.

Fofana is realistic—and supremely talented. He plays with low centre of gravity, body feints, and rapid dribbling to unsettle defenders. He would not be just a backup to Díaz—he could even replace him should Díaz depart.

At 20 years old, with international recognition for Belgium, Fofana offers Liverpool both immediate involvement and long-term promise.

Chelsea’s pivot from Sancho to Fofana

Chelsea’s wing recruitment isn’t just about Giovani singer; it’s a continuation of their academy-style strategy—young, skillful, resalable. After passing up on Jadon Sancho, Fofana offers a clean, affordable solution across from the wings.

Their verbal inquiry to Lyon underlines serious intent. If Chelsea moves aggressively, Liverpool may be forced to escalate quickly.

What happens next

The summer race for Malick Fofana is intensifying. Lyon, under financial pressure and flirting with relegation, could sell if the right bid arrives. But they’re firm—at least €50 million—and others like Bayern and Marseille are circling.

For Liverpool, the immediate window hinges on whether they accelerate their offer to match. With Díaz’s future uncertain, securing Fofana would address both squad rotation and upgrade needs, blessing Liverpool with youthful spark and depth on the left flank.