Sunderland’s Deadline Day turned into a race against time, nerves and a rival Premier League club. After hours of twists and turns, Malick Fofana finally chose the Black Cats, with the deal completed for an initial £25.7m and up to £30.8m with add-ons.
Sunderland had agreed terms with Lyon early in the day. Crystal Palace then entered the race, with their manager Pierre Sage already familiar with Fofana from his time at Lyon.
Both clubs reached agreements with Lyon. The drama then moved to the airport, where Fofana faced a remarkable choice between two private jets, one waiting to take him to Sunderland and the other to London.
The winger also underwent a medical in Lyon that both clubs had access to. With the deadline closing, Sunderland owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus travelled to France to make one final push for the player.
Fofana changed his mind several times during the day. At 9:50pm, with the clock racing towards midnight, he finally gave Sunderland the green light.
The Black Cats then had to move quickly. They submitted a deal sheet at 10:54pm to ensure the transfer could be completed before the window closed.
Arsenal had also looked at Fofana over the weekend but decided against making an offer. Sunderland’s persistence ultimately paid off after a day that tested every part of their transfer operation.
The club also explored a move for Belgium winger Dodi Lukebakio. That deal ended when the player decided to remain at Benfica.
Fofana’s arrival now gives Sunderland another exciting attacking option. More importantly, the chaotic finish showed the club’s determination to compete for players who are also attracting interest from established Premier League sides.
