Liverpool Transfer Blow: €50m Star Faces Heartbreak After Slot’s U-Turn on Chiesa
Liverpool’s summer transfer plans have taken a twist, with manager Arne Slot reportedly making a surprise U-turn that could block a move for Malick Fofana. The Reds had been eyeing the Lyon winger as a potential long-term successor to Mohamed Salah, but Federico Chiesa’s decision to remain at Anfield has shifted priorities.
Chiesa Stays, Fofana Impacted
Despite a frustrating 2024/25 season in which he started just once in both the Premier League and Champions League, Chiesa has chosen to stay and fight for his place. The Italian, who scored against Bournemouth last week, was previously open to leaving but now feels settled and wants to be part of Slot’s project.
According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Slot is now “strongly considering” keeping the 27-year-old winger. That stance has effectively cooled Liverpool’s pursuit of Fofana, despite the Belgian talent’s well-documented admiration for the club.
Fofana, valued at around €50m, had expressed his dream of playing for Liverpool and following in the footsteps of Salah, Sadio Mane, and El Hadji Diouf. However, with Chiesa staying put, his path to Anfield looks blocked.
Fofana’s Uncertain Future
Speaking earlier this summer, Fofana admitted his future at Lyon was unclear:
“If I stay at OL? Trick question. In football, anything can happen… If I stay, it will be with happiness, but if a good opportunity comes, we’ll see.”
Lyon officials also acknowledged the likelihood of bids but insisted any sale would depend on the right offer. Newcastle United have been linked as an alternative destination, with observers suggesting the Magpies could provide a stepping stone before a potential move to Europe’s elite.
Liverpool’s Transfer Balancing Act
The Reds have already added eight new signings this summer and remain in the market for reinforcements, particularly after Luis DĂaz’s departure to Bayern Munich. They are also pushing for a defender, with talks ongoing for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi after an initial bid for Alexander Isak was rejected by Newcastle.
But with Slot opting to back Chiesa, Liverpool may delay their winger search, even if it means passing up on Fofana.
The Verdict
For Liverpool, the decision reflects a delicate balance between immediate needs and long-term planning. For Fofana, it’s a setback—his Anfield dream looks out of reach, at least for now.
The transfer window is still open, but unless there’s another twist, Slot’s U-turn means Chiesa stays and Fofana’s Liverpool move is off the table.
