Sources: Chelsea plan to accept new Fofana offer after loan deal cancelled
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Chelsea Plan to Accept New David Datro Fofana Offer After Loan Deal Cancelled
Chelsea are preparing to cut short David Datro Fofana's season-long loan at Fatih Karagumruk in Turkey and accept a permanent transfer offer for the 23-year-old Ivorian striker, according to sources.[1][2][3]
Fofana, signed by Chelsea from Molde in January 2023 for around €12m (£11m), has impressed during his current spell in the Turkish Super Lig, scoring five goals in 12 league appearances and two in the cup, totaling seven goals in 14 games overall.[1][2] Despite limited first-team opportunities at Stamford Bridge—only four appearances under Graham Potter and Frank Lampard—he has contributed 13 goals across 59 outings in five loan spells.[3]
The decision to recall Fofana stems from Chelsea's need to free up one of their limited international loan slots. A permanent sale would allow the club to loan out fringe players like Raheem Sterling or Axel Disasi to continental clubs, providing crucial squad flexibility amid a quiet January window.[1][2] Sources indicate Chelsea are working actively on this permanent exit, potentially accepting a financial loss if the fee falls below £5m-£7m, softened by an expected £7m sell-on clause from Conor Gallagher's possible Tottenham move.[3]
Multiple clubs have been encouraged by Chelsea to bid, with Celtic, Derby County, and Royal Antwerp leading the interest. Celtic, trailing Hearts in the Scottish Premiership, seek attacking reinforcements; Derby are Championship playoff hopefuls; and Antwerp sit seventh in the Belgian Pro League.[1][3][6] Fabrizio Romano confirms these three clubs have made contact, positioning Fofana for a January departure.[3][6][7]
BBC journalist Nizaar Kinsella reports "multiple clubs" are in talks, highlighting the strategic roster move as Chelsea shuffle assets under new head coach Liam Rosenior.[2] While recouping the full purchase price may prove challenging, the deal aligns with Chelsea's focus on financial regulations and youth development.[3]
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