Leicester City won't be 'exploited' by Newcastle and Chelsea over James Maddison & Wesley Fofana

Brendan Rodgers has vowed that Leicester City will not let wealthier Premier League clubs “exploit” their financial difficulties and pinch their star players.

The City boss reiterated on Monday that neither Wesley Fofana nor James Maddison were for sale. Chelsea are looking at City’s French centre-back to bolster their defensive ranks, while Newcastle have now made two offers for the club’s number 10.

Rodgers said it may be the case that clubs are looking to take advantage after he admitted earlier in the window that City must sell in order to make signings. However, he insisted they are not willing to let go of their key players to do that.

Asked if interest in Fofana and Maddison was opportunism on the part of City’s Premier League rivals, Rodgers said: “It may well be. There is obviously, within the club, a financial situation which isn't ideal in terms of wanting to do business.

“It doesn't mean we will be exploited. We don’t want to be losing our best players. You don't want to lose your best players and then not be able to bring any in. That doesn't stack up.”

In the case of Fofana, City are in a very strong position because of the new contract he signed in March, extending his deal with the club to 2027. Because of his talent, Rodgers does not deny that he will play at the very top one day, but a move won’t be happening this summer, he has outlined.

“He’s not for sale,” Rodgers said on Monday. “He’s come here, really flourished and developed, not just as a player but as a young man. He really respects the club. I’ve got no doubt that in the future he’ll be on that (highest) stage but he’s very comfortable, he feels good here.

“He has a great relationship with his team-mates, which is important, and there’s no