Sunderland have completed one of the most dramatic deals of the summer transfer window after winning the race for highly-rated winger Malick Fofana.
The Premier League newcomers secured the Belgian attacker in a deal reportedly worth around £31 million, making him a record signing for the club.
However, the transfer was far from straightforward.
Crystal Palace made a late attempt to hijack Sunderland’s move for the player, turning the situation into a dramatic Deadline Day battle. Reports of both clubs using private jets to try to complete the deal added even more excitement to an already frantic transfer saga.
In the end, Sunderland emerged victorious.
Fofana arrives with a reputation as one of Belgium’s exciting young attacking talents. His pace, direct running and ability to create opportunities could provide Sunderland with another dangerous option as they compete in the Premier League.
The club will now hope the 21-year-old can quickly settle into the squad and justify the huge investment.
For Sunderland supporters, the deal represents another statement of ambition following their return to England’s top flight.
After surviving a remarkable late transfer battle with Crystal Palace, Sunderland finally got their man.
Malick Fofana is officially heading to the Stadium of Light, and expectations will be high.