Chelsea have been told by Leicester City boss Brendan Rodgers that Wesley Fofana is not for sale this summer.
The 21-year-old, who signed a new long-term contract back in March until 2027, is the subject of interest from both Chelsea and Manchester United, but the Blues are looking to act on their interest during the summer transfer window.
Fofana expressed his happiness and desire to remain at the King Power Stadium, admitting: "I’m really happy to sign a new contract. It shows the Club have confidence in me offering me a contract to 2027.
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"I’m really happy to be here. It’s my Club, I love the fans, so I’m really happy and really looking forward to being back playing.
“I love everything about the Club. I love the city, I love the fans. It’s a family which is what I love the most. Everyone is close and gets on well. We also have a great team and are continuing to progress, with a desire to win more trophies.
"That’s why I have committed my future to the Club until 2027. I want to achieve more with the Club. There is a lot of talent here and still a lot more we can do together.”
Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel needs more defensive reinforcements and Fofana is now a top target after they missed out on Matthijs de Ligt, Jules Kounde and Nathan Ake.
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They have only managed to secure one arrival with the addition of Kalidou Koulibaly, and have now turned their attention to Fofana who will not be easy to get over the line.
A huge transfer fee and Leicester’s stance stands in the way of Chelsea completing a big-money deal as the Foxes value the 21-year-old at around £80-85 million.
But their manager, Brendan Rodgers, insists he is not for sale this summer, telling BBC Sport: "Naturally, he’s a top talent.
“He’s not for sale.
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"He still has lots of improvements to make. He’s very happy here, he really enjoys being here.
“Naturally he will attract the interest of other clubs.
"Our job, in not signing anyone so far, is to at least keep the players we have. I know that’s the intention of the club.”
Chelsea are considering offering players as part of a deal to convince the Foxes and lower the asking price.
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Who those players could be remains unclear, however they are interested in 19-year-old Levi Colwill.
His future is still being decided and Chelsea haven’t made a decision over whether or not he will stay at the club under Tuchel next season.
Topics: Wesley Fofana, Brendan Rodgers, Chelsea, Leicester City, Transfers, Football
Matthew Debono