Manchester United interested in wonderkid who was emotional at Old Trafford in Europa League

According to L’Equipe, United have added the 20-year-old Belgian to their shortlist, but they aren’t alone. Liverpool, Chelsea and Nottingham Forest are also interested, with Fofana expected to cost more than £42 million.

Chelsea are understood to have already made informal contact with Lyon, while Liverpool will only move if they clear space in their attack. For United, any deal would likely depend on outgoings, as Fofana would be more of a long-term project or rotation option rather than an immediate starter.

In terms of profile, Fofana’s dribbling and athleticism could make him a fit for the left wing-back role in United’s system, bringing a similar energy to what Amad offers on the opposite flank.

Fofana was impressive when Lyon visited Old Trafford earlier this year, playing a big part in what turned into a wild 5-4 match in the Europa League.

What Malick Fofana said after first appearance at Old Trafford

Fofana stood out during that Europa League tie, even more than some of Lyon’s bigger names. Speaking to Linternaute after being knocked out of the tournament, he reflected on what the experience meant to him:

“I think everyone is disappointed. I think we played a very good match. In the end, it wasn’t enough.

“I think we slacked off a bit, and we paid dearly for it. The penalty hurt us, and the [away] crowd pushed us.

“In the end, we have to be more demanding of ourselves. It’s the first time I’ve felt emotions like that, and I’ll remember it for a long time.”