Roma have turned their attention to Olympique Lyonnais winger Malick Fofana and are preparing a €40 million offer for the Belgium international, according to reports. The Serie A side have shifted focus after cooling their interest in Inter forward Luis Henrique.
The Giallorossi are also close to completing a separate deal for Porto midfielder Rodrigo Mora. However, manager Gian Piero Gasperini has stressed the need for additional attacking options, prompting the club to pursue Fofana as a priority target. While Mora typically operates in central areas, Fofana would provide width and directness on the flank.
Player preference and competition
Despite Galatasaray offering a more lucrative salary package, Fofana would prefer to join Roma and play in Serie A, sources indicate. The 21-year-old sees the Italian league as his preferred destination should he depart Lyon this summer.
Roma had previously considered Luis Henrique as an alternative, but negotiations stalled after the Inter player showed reluctance to make the switch. Consequently, the capital club abandoned those talks to concentrate on securing Fofana’s signature.
Transfer history and form
Lyon signed Fofana from Belgian club KAA Gent for €19.5 million in January 2024. The winger managed two goals and one assist in 16 appearances during his first half-season in France, though his playing time was limited by a lengthy injury lay-off.
The proposed €40 million fee would represent a significant profit for Lyon if the deal proceeds. Roma will now look to formalise their offer as they seek to strengthen their attacking options before the transfer window closes.