DEADLINE DAY: Malick Fofana joins Sunderland after dramatic transfer saga
02.09.26, 01:18 Updated 02.09.26, 01:18 4 Minute Read
Keith Chapman
What had begun as a relatively straightforward move for one of Belgium's most exciting young attackers turned into a remarkable final-day scramble, with Sunderland and Palace both agreeing deals with Lyon and the player left to decide which destination he wanted to make his next home.
Sunderland had agreed a deal to sign Fofana on Deadline Day morning, believing they had secured the highly rated winger after negotiations with Lyon.
But Crystal Palace, managed by Pierre Sage, who had previously worked with Fofana during his time at Lyon, moved late to try to change the outcome.
Palace also reached an agreement with the French club, leaving the player with two competing offers and the remarkable prospect of choosing between two Premier League destinations with the clock ticking towards the transfer deadline.
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Keith Chapman contributed to Sunderland's matchday programme from 2001-2016. Season ticket holder and supporter for over 40 years, Keith was one of the fans in one of the fleet of taxis home from Bristol Airport organised by Niall Quinn when he was Chairman of SAFC! Has also worked as a Programme Editor for Non-League, EFL and Premier League clubs since 2014.