FOFANA JOINS

Sunderland have, after a back-and-forth tussle with Crystal Palace on deadline day, confirmed the signing of 21-year-old Malick Fofana from Olympique Lyon.

He leaves Lyon having made 82 outings for the French outfit, scoring 18 goals and providing six assists. Predominantly a left-sided attacker, he has also operated in a central role, offering SAFC flexibility across the attacking front line.

Sunderland AFC Director of Football Florent Ghisolfi said: “Malick has all the attributes to thrive in the Premier League. He is a player with huge potential and Sunderland AFC will provide him with the right environment to continue to develop and prosper. He operates off the left and will complement the versatility of the other wide men we have at the club, who can play across both flanks. We are delighted to welcome Malick to the Club and look forward to supporting him as he takes the next steps in his career.”