Real Madrid are reportedly eyeing Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana as an alternative to Jules Kounde in the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Real Madrid are turning their attention away from Jules Kounde in search of a centre-back in the summer transfer window. Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana has been identified as a potential alternative to his compatriot, with the Premier League giants likely to demand up to €50 million for his services.
Wesley Fofana has taken no time to establish himself as one of the best young defenders in the Premier League. Having arrived at Leicester City from Saint-Etienne in the latter stages of last summer’s transfer window, the 20-year-old quickly became a mainstay at the back for the Foxes, making 38 appearances across all competitions.
Such has been the impression made by the young French central defender that he has started being courted by some of the biggest clubs in the world less than one year after joining Leicester. Chief among his suitors in the summer transfer window are Real Madrid.
Real Madrid have already lost one defensive stalwart in the form of Sergio Ramos, who has become a free agent after the expiration of his contract at the turn of the month. While David Alaba could be the Spanish international’s replacement, if utilised as a centre-back, Los Blancos are likely to be forced to sign a second central defender as well due to Raphael Varane’s uncertain future.
If the Frenchman ends up leaving, Real Madrid will need a long-term replacement at the heart of the defence, with Jules Kounde touted to be one of their options. However, according to recent developments, the Merengues have ceded interest in Sevilla defender, with Fofana now being viewed as an alternative.
One of the reasons why Real Madrid are no longer in pursuit of Kounde is his €80 million price tag. On the other hand, Fofana will cost up to €50 million, which makes him a more appealing prospect for the Spanish giants.
Secondly, Fofana is tipped to become a world-class defender in the years to come, which would further make his €50 million valuation seem like a figure worth investing in. What now remains to be seen is if Real Madrid end up launching the offensive for the 20-year-old or if they turn their attention elsewhere, with Caglar Soyuncu another Premier League defender on their radar.
