Crystal Palace competes with Sunderland to sign Lyon winger Malick Fofana

Crystal Palace has entered negotiations to sign Lyon forward Malick Fofana, challenging a deal previously arranged by Sunderland. The 21-year-old had reportedly agreed to a contract with Sunderland worth just under £30 million, including an initial £25.6 million fee and £4.3 million in potential add-ons. Fofana is currently traveling to England for a medical examination as both Premier League clubs vie for his signature. While the player was initially interested in the prospect of playing for Sunderland in the Europa League, Palace has also qualified for the competition. Arsenal previously attempted to reach a fee with Lyon for the Belgian international but failed to secure an agreement. Sunderland, which finished seventh last season, has already completed deals for Kevin Danso, Thomas Meunier, Dayann Methalie, and Jules Ahoka this summer.

• 1:05 PMYahoo Sports — Crystal Palace reach agreement with Lyon for Malick Fofana transfer, but…
• 12:16 PMYahoo Sports — Crystal Palace hijack Sunderland's £30m Fofana deal
• 11:49 AMESPN Soccer — Sources; Arsenal-linked Fofana to join Sunderland