Forest Move Fast for Malick Fofana Amid Fierce Competition
Rarely do you see a young footballer become the center of a transfer storm overnight, but Malick Fofana’s name is suddenly everywhere. Nottingham Forest, eager not to be left behind in the summer transfer race, have struck a deal with Lyon worth around £43 million to sign the Belgian winger. For Forest fans still digesting the news of Anthony Elanga’s imminent £55 million departure to Newcastle United, this is a bold statement of intent.
But here's the catch: Fofana hasn’t said yes to Forest just yet. The club and player are still ironing out personal terms. That’s no shock, given Fofana’s breakout last season, where he notched five goals and four assists across 29 Ligue 1 games, plus a first taste of international action for Belgium in 2024. For a club looking to refresh its attacking blend, Fofana fits the bill as a direct, versatile winger who thrives on both flanks—exactly what manager Nuno Espírito Santo likes for his counter-attacking setups.
Forest’s urgency comes not just from Elanga’s looming exit but from the real threat of being gazumped by larger clubs. Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Napoli—all offering the lure of Champions League or at least European football—are actively courting Fofana. That’s a real headache for Forest, who, despite moving early, have no European nights to sweeten their offer. Tempting a rising star who knows continental competition is just a signature away won’t be easy.
Lyon’s Troubles, Forest’s Ambitions, and Backup Plans
Lyon’s need to offload players—thanks to financial irregularities that could see them relegated to Ligue 2—has forced their hand. Fofana, one of their brightest talents, is suddenly for sale at a time of desperation, making him an accessible target for Europe’s cash-rich clubs. Forest’s bid stands out for its speed, but there’s stiff competition, and the player’s agents are dragging their heels, evaluating his market appeal.
Forest aren’t putting all their eggs in one basket. They’re also looking keenly at Johan Bakayoko from PSV Eindhoven. The Belgian winger, at just 21, was involved in nine goals last season and carries a price tag around £30 million. Bakayoko’s profile—quick, creative, and comfortable under pressure—matches what Forest want: a player who can step up straight away as Elanga departs. The club’s scouts see him as a viable Plan B, especially if Fofana chooses a club with Champions League football.
It’s clear that Forest’s transfer activity is being fueled by necessity. Elanga's exit, which is set to bring a record sum for Forest, puts extra cash in the kitty but also ramps up the pressure. Fans remember how heavily Forest relied on Elanga’s pace and energy last season. The club’s recruitment chiefs know they have to get this right—otherwise, hopes of progress might be overshadowed by a blunt attack. One thing’s obvious: whichever way Fofana decides to go, his transfer saga is going to shape Forest’s summer and the expectations for the season ahead.
Secret Lands Farm
July 9, 2025 AT 10:41Also, Bakayoko’s a solid backup. Quietly brilliant. Not flashy, but gets the job done. Forest’s smart to have two targets. This isn’t just about replacing Elanga - it’s about evolving.
Tamir Duberstein
July 9, 2025 AT 18:42John Bothman
July 10, 2025 AT 05:29Dinesh Gupta
July 11, 2025 AT 15:16Shalini Ambastha
July 11, 2025 AT 17:56