Chelsea has been dealt a transfer blow as Nottingham Forest reportedly agreed a deal to sign the Blues-linked Malick Fofana from Lyon.
Fofana has been a shining light for Lyon since his switch from Gent in January 2024, accumulating 41 appearances across all competitions and contributing 11 goals and six assists last season.
The 20-year-old also made a significant impact during Lyon’s Europa League campaign, but could be among the many players exiting the club this summer due to financial difficulties.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Forest have ‘agreed’ a deal with Lyon for Fofana. Despite this, the race remains open as no agreement has been reached between player and club.
🚨🇧🇪 EXCL: Nottingham Forest have agreed deal with Olympique Lyon for Malick Fofana… but no agreement yet on player side.
Fofana, waiting for Champions League clubs with Chelsea still keen on the player.
Understand Bayern and Napoli have also called to make initial approach. pic.twitter.com/dp8XtwDP9x
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 1, 2025
The Lyon winger is expected to fetch in around £43million – with Chelsea being one of several top European clubs showing interest. Bayern Munich and Napoli have also reportedly expressed interest in securing a deal for the young talent.
Chelsea will be forced to sell players in the coming weeks, with Christopher Nkunku expected to be among the first exits.
Christopher Nkunku is set to be among the first exits from Stamford Bridge this summer, according to Football Insider.
The Blues are expected to announce another two signings imminently, pushing a number of players further down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.
Recall, Softfootball had previously reported that Chelsea target Malick Fofana to replace Jadon Sancho.
Malick Fofana’s stock has risen quickly. He featured in Lyon’s intense Europa League quarter-final battle with Manchester United and made his debut for Belgium last year. Though under contract until 2028, Lyon may be open to selling him this summer, especially with Premier League clubs circling.
Enzo Maresca, currently leading Chelsea through the Club World Cup in the United States, confirmed his intention to add a winger. The squad is light in that department with only Pedro Neto, Noni Madueke, and young Ty George as natural wide players. Christopher Nkunku remains available for transfer, further fueling the need for new recruits.
