Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana, although it will be a tough deal to complete.
The Blues have witnessed multiple defensive players move on earlier in the summer. Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen departed Stamford Bridge at the end of last season as free agents, leaving huge gaps in the squad. As a result, Thomas Tuchel wants to bring in defensive reinforcements as quickly as possible.
According to reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are ramping up their pursuit of Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana. Leicester City boss Brendan Rodgers has insisted the centre-back is not for sale, but the Blues have no intention to give up and will try to negotiate again with the Foxes this week, Romano tweeted.
Fofana, 21, had an impressive debut campaign for Leicester City after moving from Saint-Etienne in 2020, catching the eye of the onlookers with his ball-playing qualities, physicality, composure and tough-tackling. The Frenchman missed most of the last campaign due to a horrific leg break, although he returned in March and turned out 12 times in all competitions.
Wesley Fofana to Chelsea—Is he worth the fuss?
After losing Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, Thomas Tuchel is left with a lack of options at the back. Despite signing Kalidou Koulibaly from Napoli, Tuchel is looking for at least a couple of players to improve his backline. Then there is a decision to be made over the uncertain future of Cesar Azpilicueta, who is on the radar of Barcelona.
In the wake of Jules Kounde snubbing Chelsea in favour of joining Barcelona, the German tactician has switched his focus to recruiting Leicester City’s Wesley Fofana.
Prior to his injury last term, Fofana had become a pillar of strength in the Foxes backline alongside Jonny Evans and Caglar Soyuncu. The young defender had dished out a series of strong displays, helping Brendan Rodgers’ side achieve Europa League football at the end of 2020/21 campaign.
While last term was a personal setback for him, the Frenchman recovered from his injury in March and did well. Thus, there is no reason why he cannot perform at the highest level this season, with Chelsea keen on bringing him to Stamford Bridge.
Fofana is a top young prospect who has the potential to become one of the world’s best defenders. Having seen his performances for the Foxes so far, there are no surprises as to why Chelsea wants him to be a part of their plans under the new owners.
The former Saint-Etienne would improve the Pensioners’ backline massively, and with the Premier League introducing five substitutions, increased squad depth will be crucial going into the new season.
However, the 21-year-old penning a new contract in March until 2027 has put Leicester in a strong bargaining position; thus, Chelsea will need to break the bank to acquire Fofana’s signature before the transfer window slams shut.