Why Chelsea look closer to Fofana transfer than ever
FT Desk
- 19 Aug 2022 15:20 BST
- 3 min read
Chelsea are inching closer to the much-desired signing of Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana.
The Blues are keen to add to their defence after losing Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger on free transfers at the start of the window.
Kalidou Koulibaly and Marc Cucurella have arrived from Napoli and Brighton respectively, but they are not finished in the transfer market with just over 10 days remaining before the window closes.
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Fofana has been a top target at Stamford Bridge throughout the summer, but Leicester have shown themselves reluctant to sell the 21-year-old centre-back.
The situation may now have turned in Chelsea's favour, however, judging by the Foxes' most recent move.
According to reports Fofana has requested he be left out of the club's squad to take on Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday, and Leicester are set to comply with his wishes.
Speaking on Thursday, manager Brendan Rodgers left open the possibility of Fofana sitting out the weekend game.
“If the players aren’t totally focused and committed to the club and being here, or for whatever reason just aren’t in the right mindset, that won’t help us," he told reporters.
“We have to ensure everyone is really focused in order for us to play the best game we can. I will always assess that after the sessions.”
How much do Leicester want for star?
Leicester are believed to be asking for a hefty fee in order to release their young star, upwards of £80 million - which would smash the world record for a defender set in 2019 when they sold Harry Maguire to Manchester United.
Chelsea have already seen two bids for Fofana's services rejected but appear to be closing in on a deal.
