Sunderland have won the race ahead of Crystal Palace to sign Malick Fofana from Lyon in a deal worth £30m. The forward becomes the Black Cats’ fifth addition of the summer and has signed a long-term contract at the Stadium of Light.
The 21-year-old joins Kevin Danso as a deadline-day arrival, strengthening the squad before Sunderland’s first European campaign since 1973. Director of Football Florent Ghisolfi said Fofana has the tools to excel in the Premier League, highlighting his high ceiling and the club’s ability to provide the right environment for his development. Operating primarily from the left, Fofana is seen as a good fit alongside the team’s versatile wide players.
Sunderland also completed a permanent move for 18-year-old Ecuadorian striker Juan Riquelme Angulo from Independiente del Valle. Fofana began his career at KAA Gent before moving to Ligue 1 in 2024.
This summer’s business also includes defenders Thomas Meunier and Dayann Methalie, plus midfielder Jules Ahoka, following last season’s seventh-place finish on their return to the top flight. The Black Cats beat Fulham on Sunday after losing their 2026–27 opener at Ipswich.