Manchester United made a last-minute effort to acquire Lyon winger Malick Fofana following Alejandro Garnacho’s transfer to Chelsea, as reported by Foot Mercato.
The Red Devils approved Garnacho’s move to the Blues for £40 million on August 30.
The club’s management sought a replacement, especially since Matheus Cunha had also sustained a hamstring injury.
Foot Mercato now reports that a proposal was discreetly presented to Fofana’s father via super agent Jorge Mendes, who served as an intermediary.
Fofana was intrigued by the prospect of joining the Red Devils. The club awaited a response from his father, but it never arrived, resulting in the deal not coming to fruition.
United could return for Fofana in January
The 20-year-old experienced a successful breakthrough season with Lyon last year. He recorded 11 goals and six assists from merely 2,290 minutes of play across all competitions.
Fofana was sidelined due to injury during the home leg of the Europa League quarter-final against United last season, yet he managed to provide an assist in the thrilling return leg at Old Trafford.
Earlier this summer, Everton made an attempt to acquire him, but Fofana expressed a preference for playing in the Champions League.
It seems that the left-sided winger reconsidered his position regarding the Red Devils; however, United did not obtain approval from his father/agent prior to the transfer deadline.
Lyon sought a transfer fee of £35 million to release Fofana. United could have afforded this amount following the permanent transfers of Garnacho and Antony.
Fofana has attracted attention due to his impressive dribbling skills and ability to win duels, in addition to his goal contributions. This season, he has one goal and one assist for Lyon.
United is expected to keep an eye on his development in the upcoming months. The club may pursue his services again at the beginning of the year if he continues to perform well for Les Gones.
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