The interesting financial reason Sunderland beat Arsenal to £30.9m Malick Fofana transfer revealed
Sunderland’s willingness to commit to a permanent £30.9m package helped them beat Arsenal to Malick Fofana
Sunderland’s ability to complete a permanent deal for Malick Fofana gave them a crucial advantage over Arsenal in the race for the Lyon winger, according to The Athletic.
The 21-year-old was offered to Arsenal during the closing stages of the summer window, with sporting director Andrea Berta described as a longstanding admirer. Arsenal explored the possibility of a move, and Fofana spoke directly with Mikel Arteta as discussions developed.
Berta already had an established relationship with Fofana’s representatives, Roc Nation Sports, having dealt with the agency previously over Vinicius Jr and Gabriel Martinelli. Arsenal also opened communication with Lyon, who were looking to raise around £30million from Fofana’s sale after missing out on Champions League qualification.
The Athletic reports, though, that Arsenal were only prepared to pursue a loan. Sources close to the negotiations claimed the London club could not put forward a permanent proposal because they were in danger of moving too close to UEFA spending limits.
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Arsenal dispute that explanation and maintain their decision to withdraw from the pursuit was based on technical considerations rather than financial restrictions. That situation created an opening for Sunderland, who were prepared to commit significant money to signing Fofana permanently. The Black Cats eventually agreed a package worth €30million plus €6million in potential add-ons, approximately £25.7million rising to £30.9million.
Crystal Palace also made a dramatic late attempt to hijack the move, but Sunderland eventually secured Fofana after a chaotic final day in which the player’s destination changed several times. For Sunderland, the details provide further context to one of the most eye-catching deals of their summer.