Olympique Lyonnais won a convincing 4-0 win over Hamburg SV in his third friendly game of the summer, with goals from Malick Fofana (11th), Ainsley Maitland-Niles (31st), Georges Mikautadze (39th) and Afonso Moreira (95th). Coach Paulo Fonseca initially aligned the model team, then gave time to many young players, including new recruits Alonso Moreira and Justin Kluivert. Malick Fofana was particularly successful, involved in the first three goals and demonstrating its offensive potential with debalance, dribble and speed. This victory, played in an almost full stadium in Hamburg, underlined the need for OL to retain its key players, especially in the face of the growing interest of other clubs.

Interest in Malick Fofana, 20 years old, is increasing, notably from Everton, an English club that would have submitted a first offer of 36 million euros, including bonuses. This offer, considered insufficient by the Lyon management, which targets at least EUR 40 million, could be reconsidered. Several sources, including Fabrizio Romano, indicate that negotiations are under way and that agreement could be reached quickly. The start of Fofana, already mentioned following other departures from the team, could considerably weaken OL’s offensive sector, which must deal with the absence of other key players such as Alexandre Lacazette, Rayan Cherki and Thiago Almada.

Malick Fofana’s situation has become a hot topic, with a sale price set at €40 million by OL. Despite his young age and his current contract until 2028, the player is courted by several clubs, including Everton, who seems to be the most advanced in his negotiations. OL will have to make an important decision in the coming days, taking into account both the market value of Fofana and the financial needs of the club. A departure of the Belgian winger would be a blow to the Lyon team, but could allow the club to finance new recruits and restructure its staff.