Wesley Fofana has publicly said that he wants to join Leicester this summer as he looks to push through a move to the Premier League.
The Saint-Étienne defender has been linked with a move to the Foxes, but manager Claude Puel declared that “there is no debate” about a potential move. Angered by the former Leicester boss’ comments, Fofana has spoken out about the transfer saga.
Speaking to L’Équipe, Fofana said: “I got a lot of offers. It’s okay to have checked them with my agents. They didn’t agree to me speaking [publicly]. But what just happened will break something in me. My decision is made: I accept an offer.”
The 19-year-old is determined to join Leicester, with the club eager to sign a new centre back for the upcoming season. The Foxes have already submitted a €29m bid for the Frenchman, which could be a record-breaking departure fee for Saint-Étienne.
He added: “I’ve always dreamed of playing in England. I’d be crazy to say no to Leicester. This contract can change my life. I have to protect my family, if you take into account the sporting and financial aspects, I am obliged to say yes.”
Fofana has been with Saint-Étienne since 2015, making his first-team debut four years later in May 2019. The defender has made 27 senior appearances for Les Verts, with 88% of those coming last season under Puel.
It would be a fantastic move for Leicester, who would greatly benefit from a young defender with a bright future ahead. The Foxes are hoping to add depth to their centre-back ranks, bringing in strong competition for Çağlar Söyüncü and Jonny Evans.
Fofana added: “Last summer, I had thought about leaving. But as the club did not agree a deal with [RB] Salzburg, I stayed, focused 100% on Saint-Étienne. This time, I can’t refuse. I’m aware [of the risk of going abroad], but I am determined and mentally ready to change my life.
“By putting in that sum, Leicester are proving they really want me. It’s not like I want to leave for a club where there are a lot of centre backs. It’s a real sporting project.”
Leicester begin the Premier League season with a trip to West Brom, travelling to the Hawthorns on Sunday. The Foxes are also back in Europe with the Europa League this season, their first appearance in the competition for 20 years.
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Source : 90min