Liverpool were linked with a move for Lyon winger Malick Fofana during the summer, with the player himself now confirming the Reds’ interest – and why a transfer never materialised.
Following Luis Díaz’s departure, Liverpool were expected to target a new left winger.
However, the club ultimately chose to place their trust in teenage prospect Rio Ngumoha, ensuring his pathway to the first team was not blocked.
For a time, though, Fofana – who registered 11 goals and six assists for Lyon last season – was among the names touted as possible options.
Everton are said to have submitted an official bid, but no deal was struck for the 20-year-old.
The fact Liverpool never advanced their pursuit highlights their commitment to Ngumoha’s development.
According to The Times’ Paul Joyce, the club “would rather create a pathway” for Ngumoha “than sign Bradley Barcola or Malick Fofana.”
That decision already looks to be paying off, with Ngumoha scoring the winner away at Newcastle just days before his 17th birthday – with the announcement of his first professional contract expected soon.
Meanwhile, Fofana has started all three of Lyon’s Ligue 1 fixtures this season, registering both a goal and an assist in their perfect start – a run in which ex-Red Tyler Morton has also played a key role.
Instead of strengthening the left wing, Liverpool’s summer business in attack focused elsewhere, with record outlays on Alexander Isak (£125m), Florian Wirtz (£116m), Hugo Ekitike (£79m) and the addition of teenage striker Will Wright (£200,000).
Speaking to Het Belang van Limburg, Fofana revealed that both Liverpool and Chelsea showed interest, though Lyon’s €50 million (£43.3m) asking price proved prohibitive.
“There was interest from those two clubs, but ultimately nothing concrete,” Malick Fofana explained.
“I’ve considered a transfer, but now I think it’s more important that I play a lot, and that has to happen at Lyon. Because I still have some progress to make.”
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