Newcastle United Are Facing Tough Competition For This Ligue 1 Winger: Should Howe Go For Him? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalist Mark Brus stated that Newcastle United are facing tough competition for Olympique Lyonnais winger Malick Fofana. It has been mentioned that the Magpies would have to rival Liverpool, Arsenal, Aston Villa, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus in the race to land the Belgian wide player this summer.

Fofana’s Impressive Form In Ligue 1

Fofana has enjoyed a decent campaign at the French club after he put in a run of eye-catching performances for them in Ligue 1. The Belgian talent has been involved in 40 matches for Lyon this season, netting 11 goals and securing six assists across various competitions.

The 20-year-old has been a reliable performer in the final third based on his average of 1.0 shots, 0.8 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in Ligue 1. He has even been accurate when distributing possession from the left flank as he is averaging 1.0 shots, 0.8 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in league football (stats via whoscored).

His current contract at Lyon will run out in the summer of 2028. Hence, Newcastle would have to make a convincing offer if they are serious about signing Fofana this off-season.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY – JANUARY 23: Malick Fofana of Olympique Lyonnais looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between Fenerbahce SK and Olympique Lyonnais at on January 23, 2025 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)

Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Go For Fofana?

Fofana is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make a few clever runs out on the flanks. He has got the eye to play some decisive passes in the final third and can strike the ball with venom from long range.

The Belgian talent can chip in by scoring and creating his fair share of goals for his team. He mainly operates as a left-sided wide player but can also fill in as a right-winger if required.

We can expect Fofana to enhance the quality of Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe’s frontline. He is good enough to fight for a regular first-team spot at the Tyneside club next season.

At 20, the future looks quite bright for Fofana as long as he continues to improve with each year. Therefore, it makes sense for the Magpies to go for a player of his quality and potential this summer. However, only time will tell whether Fofana can handle the physicality and high intensity of the Premier League if Newcastle manage to land him soon.