Sunderland complete Fofana signing after dramatic Deadline Day

Sunderland have finally landed their man after a Deadline Day rollercoaster: Malick Fofana has completed his move to Sunderland, with Sky Sports reporting the transfer is now done.

As the outlet explains, Sunderland agreed terms to sign the Lyon winger on Deadline Day morning, but Crystal Palace tried to hijack the deal. The reason given is that Palace boss Pierre Sage had previously worked with Fofana at Lyon, which helped Palace push back late in the process.

Two jets, one decision

With both Premier League clubs reaching agreements with Lyon for the winger, Fofana was kept waiting at Lyon airport while two private jets were arranged. One was lined up for Sunderland and the other for London. Fofana also underwent a medical in Lyon on Deadline Day that both teams were able to monitor.

Still, with the deadline looming—just over an hour to go—Fofana ultimately chose Sunderland. The article adds that Sunderland owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus travelled to Lyon specifically to persuade him.

Fee and add-ons confirmed

The transfer is structured as an initial £25.7m plus £5.14m in add-ons, taking the reported total to £30.8m. Sky Sports also notes that Arsenal had considered a move earlier in the weekend but did not make a formal push, leaving Sunderland to wrap it up first.