(Credit: Imago)
(Credit: Imago)

‘Class’ - What French media say about ‘outstanding’ Everton target is bad news for David Moyes

Jack Dawson

Correspondent AUTHORITY Football journalist with experience at the Edinburgh Evening News and GRV Media; Masters graduate from the University of Derby. FOCUS Scottish Premiership coverage with specialist knowledge of Rangers, Celtic, Hearts, Aberdeen, and Motherwell. THE INSIGHT Jack utilises a network of club and industry contacts across the Scottish Premiership to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the tactical and transfer insight behind the headlines to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

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Everton are keen to remain active in the transfer window going into the final days of the transfer window.

Monday’s 1-0 defeat against Leeds United has no doubt raised concerns about the Toffees’ prospects this season. 

Multiple Everton players were poor against Leeds, with it being clear that signings were needed. 

A new attacker could well be the priority for David Moyes as he looks to finally end the Toffees’ woes in front of goal. 

Everton manager David Moyes looking serious
David Moyes is keen to add to his attack this summer (Credit: Imago)

Everton target Malick Fofana stuns for Lyon

The Lyon winger is believed to have plenty of promise and is already a Belgian international despite being just 20 years old. 

As a result, Moyes is keen on the attacker, and received a boost on Friday as it was reported that Fofana was expected to leave Lyon

On Saturday, Fofana netted the opening goal against Metz in a 3-0 victory as they moved top of the table.

Subsequently, Maxifoot.fr on 23 August awarded the 20-year-old a 8/10 for his performance, commenting: “Hitting on his left wing, the Belgian striker unblocked the match with a high-class gesture by eliminating two opponents before concluding in composure. 

  • Fofana joined Lyon in 2024 from Gent
  • The winger made his Belgium debut in October
  • Fofana netted 11 goals in all competitions last season

“Unsustainable in duels, he often pushed Kouao back and caused delays. 

“His constant activity and ability to create danger with each acceleration made him the most outstanding player of the evening. Replaced in the 86th minute by Afonso Moreira.”

This could prove to be bad news for Moyes, as if Fofana proves that he should be one of the first names on the team sheet, Everton may have no chance of securing his services.

Even if Lyon are willing to part with the Belgian international, the better he plays, the more the French outfit may demand in a potential deal.

On top of this, more attractive clubs may make a late swoop, which could rule Everton out of the race, especially if they offer European football.  

Malick Fofana celebrating at Lyon
Malick Fofana is linked with a move to Everton (Credit: Imago)

Malick Fofana vs Metz

The report regarding Fofana was not understated, with the winger having a great match. 

According to Fotmob on 24 August, the winger was the best player on the pitch, earning an 8.4 rating.

Malick Fofana vs Metz
Minutes played 86
Goals 1
Expected assists0.48
Chances created 3
Successful dribbles 2
Successful crosses 2
Rating 8.4
Fofana was incredible against Metz

Throughout the match, Fofana created three chances, with an expected assist rate of 0.48.

Given Everton’s lack of creativity and goals, the winger could easily be the answer to Moyes’ problems. Now, all that remains is for the Toffees to get the deal over the line. 

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