Karim Benzema was remarkably close to a sensational return to Lyon this summer, with the former Real Madrid superstar prepared to play for his boyhood club without a salary. The 2022 Ballon d'Or winner had expressed immense enthusiasm for a homecoming to the Groupama Stadium before complex contractual hurdles ultimately derailed the move.
UEFA has handed down significant punishments following the chaotic scenes that marred the Champions League play-off second leg between Lyon and Fenerbahce. The disciplinary body focused heavily on former Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi and ex-Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood after a post-match brawl erupted at the Groupama Stadium.
Arsenal’s search for attacking reinforcements took a dramatic turn on transfer deadline day as the Gunners ultimately passed on the opportunity to sign Belgian starlet Malick Fofana. Despite being offered the chance to land the highly-rated Lyon winger, Mikel Arteta opted to pull the plug on the deal during the final hours of the window.
Everton have confirmed the signing of versatile right-back Ainsley Maitland-Niles from Lyon on a permanent three-year contract. The former Arsenal defender ends the Toffees' exhaustive search for defensive reinforcements, returning to English football following an impressive three-season stint in Ligue 1 with the French heavyweights.
Sunderland are on the verge of completing a dramatic deal for Malick Fofana after countering a late hijack attempt from Crystal Palace on transfer deadline day. The Black Cats have moved back into pole position to secure the Lyon winger by offering improved terms, despite Palace matching their valuation and Arsenal earlier pulling out of the race.
Sunderland have sensationally hijacked Arsenal's pursuit of Malick Fofana, agreeing a £30 million deadline-day deal with Lyon. The highly-rated Belgium international had previously held direct talks with Mikel Arteta regarding a move to north London. However, the Gunners ultimately opted against the transfer, allowing the Black Cats to swoop in and seal a massive coup.
Naft Tehran
