Wesley Fofana is one of several players who could exit Chelsea this summer as Xabi Alonso begins his rebuild at Stamford Bridge.
Alonso has joined the Blues with the authority to make the big decisions, including in the transfer window, where the Spaniard will be reshaping and building a squad that is capable of achieving success.
The 44-year-old will know that the defence needs big upgrades this summer. Alonso will want to establish his 3-4-3 structure as soon as possible, and unfortunately, most of his current centre-backs aren't up to the standard.
While Chelsea must build their back line around Levi Colwill and perhaps Trevoh Chalobah, the likes of Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, Axel Disasi and Fofana could all exit West London permanently.
Wesley Fofana not interested in leaving Chelsea
According to the Daily Mail, Chelsea are willing to "listen to offers" for Fofana if they come in. The same report also states that sources close to the Frenchman — who earns a whopping £200,000-per-week — insists he's "not interested" in leaving the club.
Barcelona have shown an interest in Fofana as a possible partner for Pau Cubarsi, but there has already been a disagreement with the structure of a deal.
Chelsea value Fofana at around £30 million and would prefer a permanent transfer for the 25-year-old, whereas Barca — still experiencing financial difficulties — hope to sign the defender on loan with an option to buy.
The Blues are unlikely to sanction that agreement, as it only benefits the buying club and the player when the ideal scenario is to shift him off the wage bill.
But even with the possibility of Fofana being given limited minutes under Alonso, he appears willing to fight for his place at this stage, and perhaps he will get a chance to impress the new manager.
Fofana's contract expires in June 2029 and has made 23 appearances in the Premier League for a team who have conceded 49 goals this term.
Fofana isn't good enough for Xabi Alonso's Chelsea project
Alonso will have to make some cut throat decisions at Chelsea, and that includes axing large portions of his squad.
While the likes of Reece James and Marc Cucurella will flourish in Alonso's 3-4-3 system, Fofana is easily replaceable and getting around £30 million for him would be a huge win.
The Spaniard will be in the market for Premier League-ready defenders, who possess world-class ball-playing qualities, top drawer leadership and incredible defensive capabilities.
Fofana doesn't tick any of them boxes, and having struggled to perform at a high standard, with Colwill arguably outshining him, his injury-plagued Chelsea career should come to an end this summer.
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