Chelsea announce first rookie in East transfer window

Chelsea have begun plans to sign reinforcements in the January transfer window as David Datro Fofana looks set to become Graham Potter’s first signing as Blues boss.

Chelsea have announced the club have reached a pre-agreement to sign Molde striker David Datro Fofana. The Ivorian forward is set to become the Blues’ first January transfer signing.

David Datro Fofana is undergoing medical tests ahead of a £10.5million transfer to Chelsea. (Image: (Photo by Maria Jose Segovia/DeFodi Images via Getty Images))

Todd Boehly has acted on plans to back Graham Potter after the 47-year-old replaced Thomas Tuchel as Chelsea boss back in September. Fofana has scored 15 goals and provided a further five assists for the Norwegian outfit so far this season.

The striker completed medical tests ahead of his move to Stamford Bridge last week. The Blues began exploring a number of striker options after Armando Broja suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during a friendly against Aston Villa.

Fofana had one year left on his current deal with Molde but now looks set for a switch to Stamford Bridge after the Blues reached an agreement with Molde. Personal terms were discussed between the player and Chelsea last week.

The Blues released a statement confirming the signing of Fofana on their official website. The statement read: “Chelsea FC has reached a pre-agreement with Molde FK for the transfer of David Datro Fofana. The 20-year-old striker will join the Blues on 1 January 2023. We look forward to welcoming David to the club!”

A central midfielder, centre-back and backup right-back are all thought to be on the agenda for the Blues in January, football.london understands. Reece James’ latest injury setback could see Boehly accelerate plans to find a capable backup option with the England international set to be out until February after aggravating a knee injury he suffered back in October in the 2-0 win against Bournemouth.

Chelsea are progressing in a deal for Monaco defender Benoit Badiashile as Potter looks to reinforce his defensive options. A fee in the region of £35million is being discussed with the Ligue 1 outfit as Boehly now focuses on his next move in the transfer market.

SOURCE: football.london