Chelsea: £200k-a-week star 'expected to sign' at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea are optimistic that they will succeed in their bid to lure Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana to Stamford Bridge, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

Blues boss Thomas Tuchel has forked out more than £180million on reinforcements, but the German could strengthen his squad further ahead of the September 1 deadline.

It is understood that Fofana has informed Leicester of his desire to join Chelsea, who have had two bids – with the latest being worth £70million – rejected.

Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers has revealed the west Londoners’ proposals were ‘nowhere near what the club would consider’.

Leicester are adamant that they will not sell Fofana unless he surpasses Harry Maguire as the most expensive defender of all-time and Chelsea could reportedly be forced to part with as much as £85million in order to get their man.

However, in a boost for the Blues, the defender’s current employers could soften their stance and cash-in as they are desperate to strengthen their own squad before the transfer deadline.

It has emerged that Chelsea, having identified the Frenchman as a priority target, have already agreed personal terms with Fofana and are willing to offer a contract worth £200,000-per-week.

Jones understands Chelsea are confident that Leicester will eventually sanction Fofana’s departure from the King Power Stadium.

The transfer insider believes the Foxes will allow the 21-year-old to move to west London when their valuation is met.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: “There’s a bit of frustration that Fofana is taking so long to finalise, but every source I have at Chelsea still expects it to happen.

“It does feel like Leicester are conceding defeat too, and will let him leave as soon as they have the money they want.”