Everton and Fulham moved to sign Lyon’s Malick Fofana in the summer window.

The winger impressed for the Ligue 1 side last season, scoring 11 times and registering six assists from 41 matches. His performances convinced Everton and Fulham to bet on him.

In July, we covered claims from France about Everton making an initial bid worth around €35m.

Fast forward to October and De Morgen cover attempts made by the Premier League duo to sign the Belgium international.  It’s claimed the Toffees and Marco Silva’s side ‘pushed ahead’ for the 20-year-old’s signature.

The report explains both Everton and Fulham were willing to cover a total package worth €45m, meeting Lyon’s request.

However, the attacker wasn’t convinced and didn’t see either club as a significant step up in his career.

After reporting the Premier League interest, the outlet immediately relayed comments from his agent, Frederico Pena. He’s also the general manager at Roc Nation Sports.

“Fofana feels very valued at Lyon. He didn’t want to risk that,” he said.

Al-Ittihad had also come forward to sign Fofana last summer. He rejected a move to Saudi Arabi. Lyon general manager Michael Gerlinger says the...