Leicester City are continuing to make progress in their pursuit of striking a deal with Saint-Étienne centre-back Wesley Fofana. The Foxes have already reportedly seen three bids turned down by the French side, but remain persistent in trying to strike a deal.
Rob Tanner of the Athletic is reporting that talks between the two clubs are positive. He also states that the clubs are close to agreeing on an initial £35 million fee. It has been a difficult deal to negotiate for Leicester, with former Foxes boss, Claude Puel very keen on keeping the youngster at Saint-Étienne.
Leicester City Edging Closer to Wesley Fofana Deal
Wesley Fofana Deal Pushing Forward with the 19-Year-Old Keen on Move
Fofana himself has openly expressed a desire to sign for Leicester City. He stated in an interview with French outlet L’Equipe:. “I’d be crazy to say no to Leicester. This contract can change my life. The sporting and financial aspect being combined, I have to say yes.”
After starting the first three games for his side, he was not included in squad in Saint-Étienne’s fourth game, and was only used as a substitute in the club’s first loss of the season to Rennes. With both Leicester and now Fofana seeking the transfer, it has made the job of keeping the 19-year-old a tough task.
Central Defender Required at the King Power Stadium
Leicester have prioritised a search for a central defender this summer and it has been a rather extensive search. The signing of Fofana will certainly bolster their defensive options. But, it remains unseen whether the 19-year-old is part of a longer-term plan.
Leicester have not stopped their search for a centre-back at Fofana. The Foxes have also reportedly seen a bid rejected for Burnley’s James Tarkowski, who has been a wanted man this summer. The Foxes premier league counterparts, West Ham also saw their three attempts to sign Tarkowski dismissed.
Despite the hefty price tags that come with the targeted duo, they could still sign both. Leicester’s current centre-backs options are seemingly scarce. The club has Jonny Evans, Çağlar Söyüncü, Wes Morgan, and Filip Benkovic, but the latter two are not often used. In fact, Brendan Rodgers opted to use midfielder Daniel Amartey ahead of the previously stated duo in Saturday’s match against Manchester City on Sunday.
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