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Sunderland fend off Crystal Palace hijack to seal Malick Fofana transfer

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.

Crystal Palace hijack Arsenal target from Sunderland

Arsenal have officially decided against a move for Lyon winger Malick Fofana, opening the door for a chaotic Deadline Day battle between Sunderland and Crystal Palace. Despite the Gunners exploring the conditions of a deal for the 21-year-old, the North London side opted not to meet the French club's valuation.

Arsenal hijacked! Sunderland swoop to beat Arteta to £30m Lyon star

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.