BBC
Chelsea have spent big on revamping their squad this summer, but the most expensive arrival could well be a player described as “the most prodigiously talented young central defender in the world”.
The Blues are ready to spend in the region of £70m to take 21-year-old Wesley Fofana from Leicester City, taking their total outlay this window to more than £200m.
“Gutted to lose him but wish Wesley Fofana well,” tweeted former Foxes striker Gary Lineker after it was reported a deal was done. “Every player wants to play Champions League football so it’s understandable.
“Chelsea fans, you’ve got the most prodigiously talented young central defender in the world. Yes, I believe he’s that good.”
So what is it about Fofana that has convinced Chelsea to splash serious cash on a young talent who has only made 37 appearances in the Premier League?
Thomas Tuchel’s defence was one of the stingiest in the league after he became Blues boss in January last year, conceding just 17 goals in his first 30 top-flight games.
But they have shipped more than double that – 35 – in the 31 league games since, and Tuchel has had to remodel his backline this summer.
“Chelsea needed a centre-back and would be nowhere near competitive if they didn’t get one,” said former Blues winger Pat Nevin on BBC Radio 5 Live.
“Fofana is a very good answer. Chelsea’s need has probably put another £10m on his price tag, but Chelsea needed to add.”
With Antonio Rudiger leaving for Real Madridand Andreas Christensen joining Barcelona,Chelsea were left needing defensive reinforcements but were unable to do business until a consortium led by Todd Boehly completed its takeover.
That was in May, and former Chelsea goalkeeper Rob Green believes a lack of planning has left them “over a barrel” as the deadline approaches.
Fofana would follow Marc Cucurella through the door after the Spaniard’s £60m move from Brighton earlier this month…
