Leicester City boss Brendan Rodgers has confirmed they have rejected two offers from Chelsea for defender Wesley Fofana, and insists they aren’t looking to sell him this summer.
The 21-year-old only signed a new long-term contract with the Foxes until 2027 back in March, but is seriously wanted by Thomas Tuchel to bolster the Chelsea defence to add to the signings of Kalidou Koulibaly and Marc Cucurella.
Rodgers has insisted in recent weeks that Fofana is not for sale, but has softened his stance from saying he will not go, to the defender’s valuation has not been met.
Whether or not Fofana will eventually move this summer remains to be seen with Leicester’s stance, but Chelsea aren’t going down without a fight and are pressing on with their transfer interest.
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They have already had two bids rejected, which have been below the £80-85 million asking price, and Rodgers has now confirmed those offers from Chelsea.
He told the media on Thursday: “There was two (bids), but nowhere near what the club would consider. We’re not looking to sell.
"Naturally if there’s interest from other clubs, that is looked at by the club. He’s a top young defender and there are not too many around his age.”
When asked for his gut feeling about whether Fofana would be a Leicester player come the end of the summer transfer window, Rodgers replied: “I don’t think about it.”
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“It can affect the whole group if you don’t manage it. You have to keep your eye on the ball.
"But everyone is focused on doing their best in games for Leicester City. For Wesley himself, communicate openly with him.
“Another year for him at least would be really important for his development. Wesley is quite calm on the situation. He is aware of the interest. He’s just getting on with his work.”
Fofana is keen on the move to Stamford Bridge and recently took out Leicester City of his social media, hinting that he is ready t leave for the current World champions in the current window.
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Rodgers knows Leicester needs to sell players in order to make any new additions, adding: "It’s going to be one where the club need to move players on.
"There are no guarantees for us at this stage.
"If anything happens, the club will let me know. If something happens later down the line, then we’ll go from there."
Chelsea have just under three weeks to finalise their transfer business before the summer window closes. Fofana is not the only target the club are pursuing.
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Barcelona duo Frenkie de Jong and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang are also of interest and talks remain ongoing with the Spanish side over potential moves this summer.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Wesley Fofana, Chelsea, Leicester City, Brendan Rodgers, Premier League, Football
