Gary Lineker makes huge Wesley Fofana claim as Chelsea close in on £75million transfer

Gary Lineker believes Chelsea are on the verge of signing ‘the most prodigiously talented young central defender in the world’ after agreeing a £75million deal with Leicester City for Wesley Fofana.

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The 21-year-old has been at the centre of one of the summer’s longest running transfer sagas but is now on the brink of completing his dream move to Stamford Bridge.

Thomas Tuchel has been forced to strengthen his defence during the close season following the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen who both left as free agents back in June.

Chelsea spent £37million on Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly earlier in the window and identified Fofana as Christensen’s ideal replacement after they were snubbed by Jules Kounde who opted to join Barcelona instead.

The Blues had several offers for Fofana rejected but have eventually broken Leicester’s resolve with their latest bid of £75m plus add-ons.

Fofana, who is yet to be capped at senior level by France, will sign a six-year deal with personal terms having already been agreed.

Reacting to the deal, Leicester legend Lineker admitted he was ‘gutted’ but sympathised with Fofana’s desire to test himself at Champions League level.

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He said: ‘Gutted to lose him but wish Wesley Fofanaa well. Every player wants to play Champions League football so it’s understandable.

Chelsea fans, you’ve got the most prodigiously talented young central defender in the world. Yes, I believe he’s that good.’

Ironically, Chelsea face Leicester at Stamford Bridge this afternoon, but Fofana won’t be involved as was the case last weekend when he was dropped from the