Young Chelsea striker, David Datro Fofana, is on the verge of leaving Stamford Bridge for AEK Athens on a season-long loan.
The deal includes an option for the Greek side to make the move permanent next summer for £20 million ($26.1m), offering Chelsea a chance to cash in on the 21-year-old Ivorian forward.
After an on-and-off negotiation process, it seems Chelsea and AEK Athens have finally reached an agreement.
The move is still pending final paperwork and a medical, with the Greek transfer window set to close on Wednesday (September 11).
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Greek adventure awaits for Chelsea forward
Fofana, who arrived at Chelsea from Molde in January 2023 for £8.4 million ($11m), hasn’t quite found his footing in London, making just four appearances without finding the back of the net.
For Chelsea, this loan is an opportunity to showcase Fofana and potentially move him on for a tidy profit if he impresses in Athens.
🆕Chelsea striker David Datro Fofana is closing in on a move to AEK Athens subject to final paperwork and medical. Loan with option for £20m. https://t.co/XYvMmKr0cO
— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) September 11, 2024
The Ivorian spent last season on loan at Burnley, where he netted four goals in 15 matches. While not prolific, it was a better return compared to his earlier loan stint with Union Berlin, where he scored just twice in 17 games.
Chelsea have been actively trimming their squad this summer, with notable exits including Raheem Sterling, Conor Gallagher, and Romelu Lukaku. As the club looks to comply with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules, Fofana’s departure could further help balance the books.
Now, all eyes are on whether Fofana can find his rhythm in Athens and make the move permanent. Will the Blues be waving goodbye to him for good next summer? Time will tell, but for now, he’s packed his bags for Greece.
