After having secured a pre-contract agreement from Christopher Nkunku earlier this season, Chelsea are now on the verge of signing Ivorian striker Datro Fofana, according to Fabrizio Romano. Following the injury to Armando Broja, the West London club are looking to replenish their forward line.
Chelsea Close to Signing Datro Fofana From Molde
Exclusive: Chelsea are on the verge of signing David Datro Fofana, here we go soon! There’s full agreement in place with Molde to sign Ivorian striker born in 2002. 🚨🔵 #CFC
Personal terms are still being discussed with player — then deal will be signed for more than €10m fee. pic.twitter.com/LA6u4vZyPc
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 15, 2022
Lack of Options Up Front Due to Broja Injury
The Blues were dealt a major blow after Broja tore his ACL in a recent friendly and was subsequently ruled out for the season. The only fit striker now available at the club is Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and thus they reinforcements as they prepare to compete in multiple competitions over the next few months.
Datro Fofana’s signing will add to the existing core of talented youngsters at Chelsea. If the deal goes through, Fofana would be Chelsea’s fourth teenage signing since Todd Boehly’s takeover. The likes of Carney Chukwuemeka, Omari Hutchinson and Cesare Casadei were signed by former manager Thomas Tuchel.
Chelsea are perhaps trying to follow the blueprint of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, who have the lowest average squad age (23.7 years) of any club in the Premier League this season. Players like Trevoh Chalobah and Conor Gallagher have also found an increased role in the team of late.
Datro Fofana’s Club Career So Far
Fofana has had a productive time with Norwegian club Molde. He finished the recently concluded Eliteserien season as the club’s top scorer, his 15 goals in 24 appearances helping Molde win their fifth league title. He also played a part in the League Cup and Europa League campaigns with 7 goals to his name.
The Ivorian international possesses a wide range of skills which he utilizes to great effect. His primary instinct is to hang off the shoulder of centre-backs. He then attacks crosses and through balls from the midfield and flank. He is also capable of dribbling and taking on defenders like a traditional winger. Perhaps the most exciting aspect about Fofana is his capacity to create his own chances and those for others, as his strength and physicality allow him to hold up the ball and fend off defenders, buying time for his teammates in the process.
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Fofana definitely has the qualities to become a top striker in world football and would be a welcome addition to the Chelsea squad. Fans of the Blues will be hoping that he follows in the footsteps of former Molde player and current Premier League star, Erling Haaland.
