Crystal Palace now ready to make late push to sign £39m star who rejected Hull

Crystal Palace are now prepared to make a late push to sign Lyon star Malick Fofana, but there could be competition from Premier League rivals Sunderland.

Hull City have also expressed an interest in signing the winger, but he recently rejected a move to the MKM Stadium, despite Sergej Jakirovic’s side winning their opening two games of the Premier League season.

The 21-year-old may have his sights set a little higher, and a move to Selhurst Park is likely to be more appealing, with the Eagles poised to embark on a Europa League campaign this season.

Fofana has already gained experience in Europe’s secondary competition, picking up six goals and two assists in 14 matches, and he has been on the scoresheet twice for Lyon during the 2026-27 campaign.

The Belgian’s primary position is left-winger, and he has impressed Como scout Ben Mattinson with his performances in that position. After he grabbed an assist in Lyon’s 2-1 defeat against Brest back in 2025, Mattinson said: “Malick Fofana is the ‘market opportunity’ clubs should be looking into at Lyon. Great play for the assist just now for Veretout’s goal.

“Explosive run down the line and an early driven low cross. Always looking to run in behind down the LHS and huge the touchline.”

That said, Pierre Sage already has plenty of wide options at his disposal, even when you factor in the fact that Ismaila Sarr could join Liverpool before the deadline on Tuesday, so it is up for debate whether another left-winger is necessary.

Crystal Palace considering late move for Malick Fofana

According to a report from Football Insider, Crystal Palace are now ready to make a late push to secure Fofana’s signature, but they will have to do battle with Sunderland, with the Black Cats also considering a deadline-busting move.

However, a deal would be relatively costly, as Lyon have set an asking price of €45m (£39m), although the five-cap Belgium international’s contract is set to expire in 2028, which weakens the French side’s negotiating position somewhat.

The report also makes it clear that Palace aren’t willing to sell Sarr, despite widespread interest in the winger, with Liverpool known to be keen, alongside a number of clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia.

However, the Senegalese winger is trying to force his way out, according to reporter Alex Crook, who has revealed Sarr has his heart set on a move to Anfield.