Wesley Fofana has informed Leicester that he wishes to join Chelsea, who are debating whether to become the 21-year-old world’s priciest defender.
Thomas Tuchel, who watched Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rüdiger go on free transfers, wants to add another central defender this summer and has identified Fofana as a top target.
Since joining Leicester two years ago, the Frenchman has flourished and is eager to move to west London. However, Leicester, who has rejected two proposals from Chelsea, is demanding more than £80 million and is desperate not to lose him during the current transfer window.
Fofana’s level of readiness following his return from a fractured leg is a worry for Chelsea. They are aware that Leicester could require at least £85 million to sell. According to credible sources, Chelsea will ultimately meet Leicester’s asking price.
Tuchel has already bolstered his defense with the additions of Marc Cucurella and Kalidou Koulibaly, and the addition of Fofana allows him to utilize Reece James as a regular right-wing-back. James began there during Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Chelsea and Tottenham.
Shortly after being moved to wing-back in the second half, the England international scored Chelsea’s second goal. He had previously used his speed as a central defender to shut down Son Heung-min and Harry Kane.
Chelsea is also seeking a striker and plans to make an offer for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Barcelona this week. Tuchel worked well with Aubameyang at Borussia Dortmund, but after allowing Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner to leave, he needs extra firepower.
The head coach of Chelsea is prepared to make significant adjustments to his offense. He has bought Raheem Sterling from Manchester City and could potentially let Hakim Ziyech and Callum Hudson-Odoi leave on loan. Christian Pulisic’s future at Stamford Bridge is also unknown.
Tuchel is also concerned with his midfield, especially after N’Golo Kanté left the Spurs game with a hamstring injury. Kanté, whose contract expires next year, could be out for a month, allowing Conor Gallagher to solidify his place in Tuchel’s plans. Gallagher replaced Kante against Spurs, while another of Chelsea’s senior midfielders, Mateo Kovacic, was out with a knee injury. The England international will be hoping for a run in the starting lineup.
The midfielder spent last season on loan at Crystal Palace. West Ham attempted to sign Gallagher on loan but was unsuccessful. Crystal Palace and Newcastle are interested in the 22-year-old.
Chelsea has declined West Ham’s initial offer of £13 million for Emerson Palmieri. They are seeking £15 million for the Italy left-back.
