David Ornstein shares Malick Fofana update on deadline day and it’s bad news for Arsenal

Arsenal’s pursuit of Malick Fofana is over.

David Ornstein has confirmed that Sunderland have reached an agreement to sign the Lyon winger.

Fofana has been granted permission to travel to the north east to undergo a medical ahead of signing a five-year deal until 2031.

The paperwork still needs to be completed but the move is on track before tonight’s deadline.

Arsenal had agreed personal terms with Fofana and the player wanted the move. But as Fabrizio Romano reported before Ornstein’s confirmation, Arsenal were not willing to meet Lyon’s €40million asking price.

The Premier League champions deemed that too high, and when it became clear the structure of any deal could not be agreed, Sunderland moved in.

Sunderland appear to be getting a really talented player in Fofana and it could be one Arsenal look back and deeply regret.

The Gunners had identified Fofana as a player who could provide the pace and directness that they are lacking in attack.

The Belgian winger will join former Gunners midfielder Granit Xhaka at the Stadium of Light.

With the window entering its last 12 hours, it currently looks doubtful that Arsenal will make a signing.

They are trying to sign Julian Alvarez, but the player is said to not be keen on a return to England.

Arsenal won’t want to panic buy a forward, but having sanctioned the exits of Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus and the loan departure of Ethan Nwaneri, Arsenal are light on options in attack.

Maybe they have a surprise option in mind? Either way, Andrea Berta needs to move quickly, if there’s anything left to move for.