Roma pause on Fofana while Hull City launch €35m bid

While Roma have ruled out signing 21‑year‑old Belgian winger Malick Fofana, Hull City have tabled a €35 million bid to Olympique Lyonnais for the same player, Fofana’s contract runs to June 2028 and their budget remains constrained.

The 21‑year‑old Belgium international is among several players linked with the Giallorossi this summer, but Roma’s limited finances have curbed their pursuit.

Roma appear to be concentrating on other targets, notably defender Leonardo Balerdi from Olympique Marseille, while they have arranged a loan move for Jan Ziolkowski to Monza.

According to pundit Alfredo Pedullà, Lyon approached Roma early this morning to finalize negotiations after personal terms were agreed with Fofana, yet the Italian club remains unconvinced by the cost and is in no rush to close the deal.

Hull City’s €35m proposal

Hull City have responded with a €35 million offer to Olympique Lyonnais for the winger, Footmercato reports. The club also held a video call with Fofana to present its project, emphasizing his ability to operate on either flank of a three‑man attack.

Fofana’s contract with Lyon runs until June 2028, giving the player several years of remaining commitment.

Lyon originally acquired the winger from KAA Gent in January 2024 for €19.5 million.

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – SEPTEMBER 07, 2025 saw Fofana feature in a FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier against Kazakhstan, as captured in a photo by Omar Havana.