Leicester City Leading Race to Sign Chelsea’s David Datro Fofana

Chelsea’s David Datro Fofana is on the verge of securing his third loan spell in a year, with Leicester City reportedly at the forefront of the pursuit.

Fofana, who joined Chelsea from Molde 19 months ago for a fee of €12 million (£10.2 million), has made only four appearances for the Blues.

The 21-year-old striker endured difficult loan stints at Union Berlin and Burnley last season, scoring six goals in 32 appearances and suffering relegation with Burnley.

Fabrizio Romano has reported that Fofana is “expected to leave on loan” for the upcoming season, with a potential obligation to buy clause included in the deal.

Despite his recent struggles, the Ivory Coast international has attracted significant interest, with newly promoted Leicester City emerging as the frontrunners.

Leicester is actively seeking a new goalscorer, given the struggles of Patson Daka, the inexperience of Tom Cannon, and the advanced age of veteran Jamie Vardy.

Although Vardy scored 18 goals in the Championship last season, he managed only three goals in his last Premier League campaign.

With the departure of striker Kelechi Iheanacho to Sevilla and prolific midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to Chelsea, Leicester’s need for attacking reinforcements is pressing.

Leicester faces competition from Stuttgart and Villarreal, who are also interested in Fofana. However, the Foxes appear to be in a strong position to secure the loan deal.

Both Chelsea and Leicester have significant transfer business to complete before the new season kicks off in just over a week. Chelsea is close to selling Conor Gallagher to Atletico Madrid as part of their squad reshuffling.

Chelsea will begin the 2024/25 season against reigning champions Manchester City on August 18, while Leicester will face Tottenham the following day.

David Datro Fofana’s potential move to Leicester City represents a fresh start for the young striker after challenging loan spells. With Leicester in need of attacking options, Fofana could play a crucial role in their Premier League campaign if the deal goes through.