Arsenal's impressive start to the 2025/26 season has not stopped the club from planning for the future, with a January transfer tussle for a top target now heating up.
Gunners Face Stiff Competition for Lyon Talent
According to reports from Spanish publication Sport, Arsenal must now contend with Barcelona in the race to sign Olympique Lyonnais winger Malick Fofana. The 20-year-old Belgian is described as the 'top target' for Barcelona's scouts, who have already held discussions with his representatives to gauge the feasibility of a move.
Lyon's well-documented financial troubles are a key factor, potentially forcing the French club to sell their promising asset. Fofana was signed from Gent just over a year ago for €19.5 million (£17.1m) and is under contract until June 2028, but a sale below his market value is a distinct possibility.
Fofana's Premier League Dream Revealed
While Barcelona pose a significant threat, the player's own ambitions could play into the hands of English clubs. The winger's agent, Bobo Fofana, has publicly stated that a move to the Premier League is a dream for his client.
However, in a potential blow to Mikel Arteta's plans, he revealed that Arsenal would not be the preferred destination. 'The choice of heart would be Liverpool,' the agent told AfricaFoot. He cited the appeal of following in the footsteps of African legends like Mohamed Salah and the potential for rotation minutes at Anfield.
The agent also mentioned Newcastle United as a 'choice of reason', a well-structured club that could serve as a stepping stone. He compared Fofana's profile to that of Manchester United's Amad Diallo, highlighting his speed, impact, and chance-creating ability as ideal for the fast-paced English game.
What This Means for the January Window
With only two goals so far this season, Fofana's on-pitch output may be affected by the intense speculation surrounding his future. The interest from European heavyweights like Arsenal, Barcelona, and Liverpool is undoubtedly a distraction for the young player.
For Arsenal, this transfer pursuit comes as the team enjoys a near-faultless run at the top of both the Premier League and Champions League, despite a recent 2-2 draw with Sunderland. The situation creates a complex puzzle for the Gunners' hierarchy, who must decide how aggressively to pursue a player whose heart appears set elsewhere, all while navigating the financial pressures of the selling club.
As the January window approaches, the club that acts with the most conviction and presents the most compelling project could secure a valuable long-term asset.
