Crystal Palace: The inside story of fascinating transfer saga as Pierre Sage has clear mission on Lyon return

Palace and Sunderland battled for Fofana on deadline day; Sunderland's £30m deal ultimately prevailed despite Palace manager Sage's intervention.

Crystal Palace and Sunderland engaged in a dramatic deadline-day battle for Lyon winger Malick Fofana. Sunderland had initially struck a £30m deal with Lyon, but Palace spotted an opening when Fofana had not yet completed his medical. Palace manager Pierre Sage, who previously worked with the 21-year-old Belgian at Lyon, called to pitch the club's project and Palace increased their bid. However, Sunderland owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus flew to Lyon and matched Palace's improved offer, ultimately securing the player.