Data-Driven Analysis Suggests Fofana Could Suit Slot’s Liverpool Setup | OneFootball

Malick Fofana on Liverpool’s Radar: High Pace, High Ceiling, Right Price?

As Liverpool continue to reshape under Arne Slot, Belgian winger Malick Fofana is a name now circulating in recruitment discussions. The Transfer Market Metrics podcast on Anfield Index brought the spotlight to the 19-year-old Lyon forward, with Phil Barter and Dave Davis dissecting his data profile, tactical fit, and potential price tag.

Metrics Show Promise but Pace Steals the Headlines

Fofana’s core numbers are trending upwards. This season, he has made 24 starts for Lyon, totalling 1,200 minutes, nearly tripling last year’s output. “That’s a good progression,” Barter noted. “Just over half the games he’s staying on for the full length of time.”

He is a carrier first and foremost — a runner. “This kid progresses the ball unbelievably,” Davis said. Barter confirmed that with hard numbers: “96th percentile for progressive carries. That’s really good.”

On touches in the box, Fofana again ranks highly — 84th percentile — which suggests he is regularly receiving the ball in threatening areas. He’s also in the 81st percentile for progressive passes received, further highlighting his involvement in transition.

The standout metric? His raw speed. “Recorded pace — over 35km/h,” said Davis. “That’s very, very useful to have,” Barter replied.

Goal Output and Passing Volume Raise Questions

Fofana’s non-penalty goals rank in the 97th percentile among his peers, per minute played, indicating strong finishing potential. But volume is a different issue. “Shot actions are low though for a winger — 23rd percentile — just 1.9 shots per game,” Barter pointed out.

His passing output is also on the light side: “33rd percentile for passes attempted,” Barter said. “His pass accuracy is 76%, but he is a forward.” Davis added, “He’s involved in low passing chains… they clearly like to break through him.”

Still, there’s upward movement. “All the metrics are improving — that would be fair to say,” Barter acknowledged. But he questioned whether that improvement is coming fast enough to justify a move now.

Tactical Fit and Positional Context

Fofana plays primarily on the left wing, cutting in on his right — similar to Luis Díaz. “Very well connected,” Barter observed of his passing links. “He’s linked in with the other forwards.”

But competition at Liverpool is fierce. “If you’re going to get in Liverpool’s attack, you’ve got to be really good,” Davis said.

Barter added context: “Fofana is around Jota’s numbers at the moment. Not too far off some of our forwards.” Still, he warned, “If it was going to be a large fee, I would expect a bit more promise.”

Leon’s Financial Struggles and a Familiar Development Path

What may tilt the scales is the reported price tag. “Leon have got financial issues,” Davis stated. “You could really drill it down… £40 million mark.”

That figure drew a more optimistic response: “If you get it below that price, that makes a lot of sense,” said Barter. He also pointed to the development opportunity under Slot: “Sounds like it could be just some clever coaching to mould him into something else.”

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Fofana has attributes that Liverpool often covet: pace, energy, tactical flexibility, and clear upward trajectory. At 19, he’s producing enough to raise interest — particularly when paired with Lyon’s financial vulnerability and Slot’s proven track record developing wingers.

The decision ultimately comes down to how Liverpool view their left-wing hierarchy. If Gakpo is trusted as first choice, Fofana could represent high-upside depth. But if the club wants a surefire starter, he may still be a step away.

At the right price, with the right guidance, this is one for Liverpool to seriously consider.