Liverpool are Preparing a ‘Serious Move’ to Sign 20-year-old Forward – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Plot Ambitious Move for Malick Fofana as Summer Plans Take Shape

As Liverpool enter a new chapter under Arne Slot, fresh off their remarkable Premier League title win, plans for summer reinforcements are already in motion. Among the names being closely linked with a move to Anfield is Lyon’s 20-year-old Belgian winger Malick Fofana, a player described by Caught Offside as the subject of a “serious move” by the Reds.

With 11 goals and five assists to his name this season, Fofana has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising young attackers. His blend of pace, flair and positional intelligence has not only alerted Liverpool but also sparked interest from Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa.

According to Caught Offside, the player’s agent has confirmed Fofana “wants a move to Anfield”, placing Liverpool in a potentially commanding position should they decide to push ahead with a bid.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot Eyes Attacking Depth Amid Uncertainty

Slot’s attacking blueprint demands mobility and tactical flexibility—traits that Fofana offers in abundance. With doubts surrounding the futures of both Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz, the need for reinforcements out wide is quickly becoming a priority.

As Caught Offside notes: “The Reds are preparing a ‘serious move’ for the winger, especially ‘amid doubts’ over the futures of ‘Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz.’” This could suggest a proactive approach rather than a reactive one from the Liverpool hierarchy, ensuring continuity and squad depth ahead of a challenging 2025/26 season.

Fofana, valued at €50 million, represents a significant investment. Yet Lyon’s financial difficulties—also highlighted in the report—could provide leverage for Liverpool to negotiate a more favourable fee.

Arsenal Interest Adds Competitive Edge

Arsenal’s long-standing interest in Fofana adds an intriguing twist to the tale. The Gunners, keen to bolster their own frontline, are monitoring alternatives should their pursuit of Nico Williams fall short. If that happens, Fofana may move up their shortlist, prompting a potential bidding war between the two Premier League heavyweights.

However, if Fofana’s preference is indeed Anfield, Liverpool could have the psychological edge in negotiations. “Liverpool’s focus is firmly on strengthening their attack,” Caught Offside states, and a player openly seeking such a move often tips the balance.

Photo: IMAGO

How Fofana Fits Liverpool’s Tactical Puzzle

While still raw, Fofana’s numbers this season—11 goals and five assists—demonstrate both productivity and potential. Slot’s high-intensity system would likely suit the Belgian winger, who thrives in transition and has the technical quality to unlock defences.

Slot is no stranger to developing youth, and under his guidance, Fofana could be moulded into a long-term successor to either Jota or Diaz. Given that Mohamed Salah is entering the twilight of his Liverpool career, and with uncertainty lingering over Diaz’s commitment, Fofana represents a strategic move aimed at both short-term reinforcement and long-term succession planning.

Caught Offside also alludes to the urgency of the move, noting the Reds must act swiftly “to secure him at a reasonable price.” That suggests Liverpool may already be preparing groundwork for a deal once the window officially opens.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a fan’s perspective, this is exactly the sort of calculated, forward-thinking move Liverpool should be making. Malick Fofana isn’t just another flashy name on the rumour mill—his age, output and playing profile align neatly with Slot’s philosophy.

After clinching the league title in his debut season, Slot has already demonstrated he can innovate within Liverpool’s structure. Bringing in a 20-year-old with elite potential reinforces the idea that the club isn’t just chasing trophies, but building a sustainable future.

Many supporters will recognise the parallels between Fofana and early-career versions of Mane or Diaz—fast, direct, fearless. But perhaps more importantly, his openness to joining the club shows the pulling power Liverpool still holds post-Klopp.

If Liverpool can outmanoeuvre Arsenal and seal this deal for under the €50m mark, it may be one of the shrewdest moves of the summer window. Especially given the looming uncertainty surrounding both Diaz and Jota, Fofana could provide the spark Liverpool need to remain at the summit of English and European football.