Hot-Property Winger Sets Sights on Liverpool and Man City as Top Transfer Targets

Representatives of Lyon winger Malick Fofana have stated that the 20-year-old talent "deserves to be" at Liverpool or Manchester City following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Fofana attracted significant attention from European clubs during the previous summer transfer window after an impressive 2024–25 season. The Belgian player excelled at Lyon, netting 11 goals and providing five assists across 41 matches in all competitions.

Although there were connections to both Liverpool and Chelsea, no transfer materialized for Fofana in the latest transfer period. The attacker remains impressive, however, contributing four goals or assists in his most recent 11 outings for club and national team.

According to Frederico Pena, a key representative at Roc Nation agency, it's inevitable that the Belgium international will eventually secure a transfer to the Premier League or Bundesliga.

"This represents the campaign where Fofana aims to demonstrate his abilities globally, particularly during the World Cup," Pena shared with Belgian publication DeMorgan.

"Should he achieve success, he can transition from Lyon to an elite club. At Roc Nation, we have tremendous faith in his potential. Liverpool, Bayern [Munich], Man City—these are the destinations where he truly fits."

Fofana Declined Major Transfer to Remain in France

Fofana had the opportunity to join one of the world's premier clubs, but he chose to remain in Ligue 1 to secure regular playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

"Interest existed from [Liverpool and Chelsea], but it wasn't sufficiently concrete," Fofana explained in September. "I considered a move, but I believe it's crucial now that I receive substantial playing time, which needs to occur at Lyon. I still have areas for improvement.

"Naturally [I aspire to participate in the 2026 World Cup], but I understand I must still demonstrate my worth. I've already shown development. I'm now more impactful and more engaged during matches."

Lyon reportedly values their young sensation at £50 million ($66.8 million), with his contract extending until June 2028. If Fofana delivers another outstanding campaign and makes his presence felt for Belgium next summer, he could command an even higher transfer fee when potentially joining a Premier League powerhouse.