After a phenomenal Premier League campaign last season, Leicester City are gearing up for a season in Europe. The Foxes could have easily ended up in the Champions League, but disappointing form in the business end of the season has forced them to settle for a Europa League spot.
That is still an extraordinary achievement. Not many people expected Brendan Rodgers’ side to finish fifth in the league, let alone come ever so close to finishing third last season.
Leicester now have to strengthen their squad to continue their progression. It looks like the Foxes are targeting a new centre-half to partner Caglar Soyuncu and a Ligue 1 teenager is reportedly their priority target.
90Min claimed earlier this week Leicester had identified St. Etienne’s Wesley Fofana as their top defensive transfer target ahead of the start of the new season.
The 19-year-old is highly-rated in France and is tipped to be among the best of his generation in the future. St. Etienne boss Claude Puel dismissed speculation surrounding his future and claimed that he will not be moving this summer. (Read more here)
However, Fofana has decided to ignore his boss. The young defender spoke to L’Equipe about his future and it looks like he is trying to force a move away from France to join the Foxes before the window closes.
“My decision is made,” Fofana said when asked about the Foxes’ interest in him. “I accept an offer (that of Leicester). This time, I can’t refuse. Where I come from, the northern districts of Marseille and a not well-off family, that’s not possible.
“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.
“I went to see the coach yesterday morning to tell him what happened, that I am not doing well, and that I want to leave. I tried, but couldn’t discuss my issues with him. No big deal. I manage on my own. I’m used to it.”
L’Equipe claim that the young defender has told his club to accept Leicester City’s £27 million bid. Fofana has already agreed a five-year contract with the Foxes and he seems to have his heart set on a move to the King Power in the coming days.
The 19-year-old has incredible potential but lacks experience. Rodgers will have to be careful about using Fofana in the Premier League if he joins Leicester, but with experienced heads like Jonny Evans and Wes Morgan there to guide him, he shouldn’t have too many problems.
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