Sunderland are set to beat Crystal Palace to the signing of Malick Fofana from Lyon for 30m euros (£25.7m).

Sunderland had agreed a deal earlier before Palace made their own proposal, but the Black Cats are expected to sign the 21-year-old Belgium winger.

The deal is understood to now be at the paperwork stage.

Fofana is understood to be excited by the prospect of joining Sunderland before their first European campaign in 51 years, having qualified for the Europa League, although Palace have also qualified for the same competition.

Arsenal also attempted to sign Fofana, but the Premier League champions were unable to agree a fee with Lyon.

Fofana began his career at KAA Gent before joining the Ligue 1 side in 2024.

By joining Sunderland, Fofana joins fellow new signing Kevin Danso, with the Austria defender signed on loan from Tottenham with an option to buy.

Sunderland have also signed defenders Thomas Meunier and Dayann Methalie, and midfielder Jules Ahoka, this summer after finishing seventh in their first season back in the top flight.

The Black Cats beat Fulham on Sunday after losing their opening match of the 2026-27 season at Ipswich.