Chelsea preparing second offer for ‘flattered’ Fofana

WESLEY FOFANA is ‘flattered’ by interest from Chelsea as the London club prepare a second bid for Leicester’s star defender. The Blues will likely have to put together a world-record package for Leicester to consider selling Fofana, 21, who signed a new five-year deal in March, as they continue to insist he is not for sale. That would mean a fee to eclipse the £80million Manchester United paid the Foxes for Harry Maguire three years ago.

As well as Fofana, Leicester have rejected two bids from Newcastle for playmaker James Maddison, who is valued at about £60m. Asked about the pair’s reaction to the interest in them, boss Brendan Rodgers said: ‘I have spoken to both of them at length. They were flattered. It’s no surprise to me there is interest in him, and James is developing into one of the top players in the Premier League. ‘They need help. They have so many voices in their ears, given all the noise around it. It is important I make sure they are focused on football and enjoying the spirit of the training ground. ‘The minute they leave training, I am sure there will be agents and every Tom, Dick and Harry trying to get hold to them.

‘I have close relations with both and speak openly with them. Wesley is a fantastic young guy.’