Lyon “world beater” linked with Liverpool as striker hunt continues | OneFootball

Liverpool weigh up Lyon’s Malick Fofana as attacking reinforcements remain priority

Defensive addition offers security

Liverpool have already moved to strengthen their backline this summer, securing the signing of 18-year-old centre-back Giovanni Leoni from Parma. Standing at 6ft 5in, the Italian youth international is expected to provide depth behind Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, both of whom played significant minutes across last season.

Leoni is considered a long-term project rather than an immediate upgrade, but his physical attributes and aerial strength offer valuable cover should injuries strike in central defence. The focus at Anfield, however, has now shifted towards bolstering the forward line.

Attacking needs identified

Manager Arne Slot has been candid about the club’s plans, acknowledging the requirement for at least one more attacking option before the transfer window closes. With Liverpool set to compete on four fronts, the need for an additional wide player has grown more pressing.

The recruitment team are prepared to allocate around £60–70 million on a winger, independent of any separate pursuit of Newcastle’s Alexander Isak. That budget highlights both the scale of ambition and the urgency to secure reinforcements capable of contributing immediately.

Photo: IMAGO

Malick Fofana emerges as target

Among the names under consideration is Malick Fofana, who has attracted attention following an impressive season with Lyon. The 21-year-old Belgian recorded 11 goals and five assists in 41 appearances across all competitions, showcasing a blend of pace, direct running and productivity in the final third.

Speaking to BeIN Sports after Lyon’s opening Ligue 1 fixture, Fofana was cautious when asked about his future.“If I stay in Lyon, that’s a tricky question. In football, anything can happen, we’ll see,” he said. “I’m very happy here. It’s not that I want to leave, but if a good opportunity comes up… I have personal goals. I hope to play a lot because the World Cup is coming, and I hope to be selected.”

Those words have been interpreted as leaving the door ajar for a potential move, with Liverpool closely monitoring developments. Earlier in the window, L’Equipe reported that initial contact had been made between representatives of the Merseyside club and Fofana’s camp.

Market stance and next steps

Liverpool’s strategy this summer has combined future planning with short-term ambition. Leoni fits the mould of a player who can develop under the guidance of senior defenders, while the focus on Fofana represents a bid to refresh attacking options immediately.

Lyon are aware of growing interest in their forward, but their position remains strong given his contract status and value to the squad. With the deadline approaching, Liverpool must weigh whether to formalise their interest or turn attention elsewhere in the market.

For now, Fofana’s future is unresolved, but his profile continues to align with the qualities Liverpool are seeking to add before 1 September.