Sunderland have secured an agreement to sign Lyon winger Malick Fofana, who was also on Arsenal's radar on deadline day.
Sunderland beat Arsenal to Fofana
The Gunners had identified the Belgian as a potential late-window target as Mikel Arteta sought more quality in the final third, but Fofana is now on his way to Sunderland. The 21-year-old has been granted permission to travel for a medical ahead of signing a five-year deal at the Stadium of Light.
Fofana had gone as far as to speak with Arteta, according to The Athletic, but Sunderland have stolen a march and will bolster their squad. Regis le Bris is preparing for a season in Europe, which will place more demand on his resources.
Fofana's record and previous interest
Fofana has scored two goals in six appearances for Lyon this season, one of which came in the second leg of the Champions League play-off defeat to Fenerbahce. Overall, he has scored 19 goals in 83 appearances for the French club.
The Belgian has long been linked with a move to England. Chelsea made a verbal enquiry for him, and Everton held talks over a possible move last summer.
Arsenal's attacking options
Sunderland had been in the market for more attacking talent and had considered taking Jack Grealish on loan, with his days at Manchester City seemingly numbered. Grealish was not keen on the move and will instead head back to Everton, where he spent last season.
Arsenal's interest in Fofana came despite the wealth of attacking depth, which was added to this summer with the signing of Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge. Tzolis has started both Premier League games so far, with Bukayo Saka on the other flank.
That has left Arteta with Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke and Max Dowman as options from the bench. The array of attacking talent has left some individuals on the outer, and Ethan Nwaneri is poised to move to Borussia Dortmund on loan.
Gabriel Martinelli, who was integral when Arsenal first became a force under Arteta, has missed out on matchday squads this season and is poised for a record departure as he heads to Saudi Arabia. Gabriel Jesus, one of only two recognised strikers at Arsenal, is also due to leave.
