'Fofana has all the attributes to thrive in the Premier League'

Sunderland Director of Football Florent Ghisolfi says new signing Malick Fofana possesses "all the attributes to thrive in the Premier League".

The Black Cats have beaten Crystal Palace to the signing of Fofana - who had previously been linked with Arsenal - from Lyon in a deal worth £30m.

The forward becomes Sunderland's fifth signing of the summer and has agreed a long-term deal at the Stadium of Light.

"Malick has all the attributes to thrive in the Premier League," said Ghisolfi.

"He is a player with huge potential and Sunderland AFC will provide him with the right environment to continue to develop and prosper."

Fofana began his career at KAA Gent before joining Lyon in 2024. He scored 19 goals and provided eight assists in 84 appearances for the Ligue 1 side.

"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," Ghisolfi added.

"We are delighted to welcome Malick to the club and look forward to supporting him as he takes the next steps in his career."