Malick Fofana: Liverpool’s Potential Luis Díaz Replacement
With Luis Díaz having completed an $88 million move to Bayern Munich, Liverpool may be in the market for a new left winger. Malick Fofana, currently at Lyon, has emerged as a possible candidate, though it’s unclear whether the club will intensify their interest given the options already available in that position.
Cody Gakpo is expected to start on the left, Hugo Ekitike can also operate in that area, and there is growing excitement around teenage prospect Rio Ngumoha.
Despite competition, if Fofana were to join Liverpool, it would be a dream move. His agent, Bobo Fofana, previously told Africa Foot:
“The choice of heart would be Liverpool. He has the talent to earn a spot in the rotation and we’d love to see him follow in the footsteps of African legends like Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, and El Hadji Diouf.”
That said, the agent admitted Newcastle could be a more practical first step:
“The choice of reason would be Newcastle, a well-organized club where he could gain experience before possibly moving to one of Europe’s top sides.”
He also described Malick’s style of play:
“He has a Premier League profile — fast, impactful, and creative — similar to Manchester United’s Amad Diallo. He’s capable of thriving in a transitional league like England’s, but he’ll need to pick the right club due to the fierce competition.”
Who is Malick Fofana?
- Age: 20
- Nationality: Belgian (born in Aalst)
- International Career: Represented Belgium at U15 through U21 levels; made his senior debut in October during a Nations League match against Italy.
- Youth Career: Started at Eendracht Aalst, joined Gent’s academy in 2014.
- Current Club: Lyon (joined in 2024)
What Are They Saying About Him?
- Pierre Sage (ex-Lyon coach):
“He has a top-level mentality. With consistent performances, he has a very bright future. He’s quick, skilful, and brave on the ball.”
- Rayan Cherki (teammate):
“I like everything about him. He’s explosive and always looking to attack space. Not very handsome — but we don’t care!” (laughs)
- Emilio Ferrera (ex-Gent U21 coach):
“From my first day at Gent, I knew Malick was the most talented player I had coached. He can change a game single-handedly.”
Liverpool Transfer Buzz (Other Key Notes)
- Liverpool recently made a move for Alexander Isak, who may return to Newcastle amid speculation.
- They could indirectly help Arsenal land Eberechi Eze, depending on other deals.
- The club completed its sixth summer sale, with a midfielder leaving for $20 million.
- Juventus reportedly approved a move as Liverpool renewed interest in Darwin Núñez, though a $52M bid for Federico Chiesa was rejected.
- Wataru Endo has sent a message to new manager Arne Slot about the team’s midfield challenges.
- RB Leipzig is in early talks with Liverpool over Harvey Elliott, as they explore him as a possible replacement for Xavi Simons.
