Transfer News: Manchester United show interest in Leicester City star Wesley Fofana

According to the French outlet RMC Sport (h/t The Express), Manchester United have expressed their interest in securing the services of Leicester City star Wesley Fofana in the summer transfer window. The youngster returned strongly to action following the long term injury he had suffered at the beginning of the last season.

Fofana’s return after his long term setback coincided with Leicester’s rise in form towards the tail end of the previous campaign. That showcases his immense quality, which could be the reason why they wanted to tie him down on a long deal and were successful back in March. In fact, Jamie Redknapp even called the youngster an “exceptional talent” due to his splendid displays.

Erik ten Hag is eager to add to his centre-half options to increase competition in the Man United squad. As such, they have identified Fofana as an ideal option, having admired his qualities and would look to intensify their efforts in the coming weeks. However, the Blues are in a similar position and would pose a considerable threat as a result.

Fofana to Man Utd, possible?

It is pretty clear at this point how we cannot carry on with our current set of options in the defence moving forward. An overhaul looks set to take place with Eric Bailly and Axel Tuanzebe already being on the way out of Old Trafford in the upcoming transfer window. Phil Jones could be in the same boat, having attracted attention from several clubs.

Their potential departures would leave us shorthanded, with Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof being the only choices. That is not ideal in a long season as we have to deal with injuries, suspensions, and congested fixture lists, which calls for the need for reinforcements.

Fofana, who has been an instant hit for the Foxes since joining in 2020, would be a great choice as he has seamlessly adapted to Premier League football. Despite the major injury, he seems not to be affected by it looking at his performances towards the end of the last season. Furthermore, being just 21 would mean that we can even secure our long term future by signing him.

That being said, the biggest concern would be whether the Frenchman would be willing to switch sides, having extended his deal only in March for five more years, according to The Independent. Moreover, Brendan Rodgers would only accept offers in the region of £68million as they are firmly in control over the youngster’s future.

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There is no doubt that Fofana would be a great option for us, but the current valuation certainly makes him a less attractive prospect under our current circumstances. The defence is not the only position that we must improve this summer, so perhaps it would be best to look elsewhere right now.

We have several other options on the shortlist as well, with players like Jurrien Timber and Sven Botman being linked with a move to Manchester. So the management must remain wise and manage their transfer dealing after assessing their budget for this summer.