Malick Fofana has reportedly chosen Sunderland as his next club, concluding a truly wild transfer saga that saw him undergo a medical jointly commissioned by both Sunderland and Crystal Palace.
The 21-year-old Belgian winger's decision came after a peculiar situation where he was having medical checks without a confirmed destination. Journalist Sacha Tavolieri confirmed the player's choice, stating it's "firm and definitive" that Fofana will join Sunderland, rejecting Crystal Palace despite their efforts.
The bizarre circumstances were further highlighted by The Guardian's Ed Aarons, who reported that Fofana underwent his medical in France while Sunderland and Crystal Palace were still locked in a battle for his signature. Private jets reportedly waited at Lyon airport, ready to fly him to either London or the North East, depending on the outcome.
Arsenal had also shown interest in Fofana, according to BBC Sport, but it appears the club wasn't fully aligned on the transfer. This lack of consensus likely paved the way for Sunderland to secure the player.
While Arsenal fans might not dwell on missing out on Fofana, especially considering other transfer targets, the club could face challenges with attacking depth. With players like Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus departing, and Gabriel Martinelli rumored to be heading to Al Hilal, Arsenal may need to explore options in the January transfer window.
