Wesley Fofana: What’s next for the £70million Chelsea defender?

Fofana was highly valued by former manager Enzo Maresca, who, according to sources, often told him in private that he was “better than the others”. His pace was integral to the high lines and style of play favored by the Italians.

Under Maresca, Fofana formed an effective partnership with Colwill, but the England international suffered a long-term knee injury and missed almost all of last season.

Throughout the campaign, ChelseaDefensive record fell behind the champions ArsenalEven when they were considered title contenders in November.

After falling out with the hierarchy, Maresca’s departure saw rapid decline across the board, while his successor, Liam Rosenier, lasted just four months.

Fofana was among a large group of players, including members of the Spanish-speaking contingent, who were not attracted to Rosenier and his form further declined as a result.

During this time, Chelsea Mamadou Sarr was also recalled from his loan spell in Strasbourg to reunite with Rosenier, but he struggled for minutes, as did Benoit Badiashil, Tosin Adarabio and Josh Acheampong.

This was despite Colwill being sidelined, and now, without European football and with another centre-back expected to arrive, the position looks overstretched.

Acheampong and Colwill are regarded as “untouchables”, leaving Tosin, Badiasile, Trevoh Chalobah and Fofana as possible candidates for sale, while Sar is highly regarded.

Adding to the mix, Tosin and Chalobah only have two years left on their contracts, which usually prompts talks of a new contract or sale. ChelseaFofana has three years left and Badiyashil four years.

In Fofana’s case, he came with the highest price tag, and because of the way football accounting works, the club would need to receive at least £30m to avoid recording a loss in their accounts.

Fofana is not actively looking to move away but his previous injury record could deter potential suitors. That said, he was largely injury-free last season apart from an injury spell out after a collision with goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen.

Ultimately, Alonso will have a huge say alongside the wider hierarchy at Stamford Bridge, as squads are trimmed in a season without European football.