The incredible story of one of the craziest deadline day sagas EVER: How Malick Fofana joined Sunderland after interest from three clubs, undergoing a medical for TWO sides and changing his mind throughout the day

Deadline day usually throws up one or two surprises – but not often one like this.

The day, for Malick Fofana, started with Arsenal, on the hunt for a left winger, registering their interest. It ended with him signing for Sunderland.

And it had plenty in between. The former Lyon man would eventually move to the Black Cats in a deal worth around £30.6million, though changed his mind more than once.

It became clear pretty early on on deadline day that Arsenal were going to pull out of a deal due to the price tag, which allowed Sunderland to swoop and agree a deal.

Only Crystal Palace smelt blood. Manager Pierre Sage, who had worked with Fofana at Lyon, is believed to have led the charge, and Palace agreed the finances too.

Fofana found himself at Lyon airport with two private jets waiting for him – one belonging to Sunderland, and one belonging to Crystal Palace.