David Datro Fofana is Chelsea’s first January transfer window signing, as Graham Potter and Todd Boehly continue the squad makeover that began in the summer.

David Datro Fofana will join Chelsea on January 1 (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Chelsea have announced they have agreed a deal to bring young striker David Datro Fofana to the club in January.

“Chelsea FC has reached a pre-agreement with Molde FK for the transfer of David Datro Fofana,” the Blues said in a statement on Wednesday afternoon. “The 20-year-old striker will join the Blues on January 1, 2023. We look forward to welcoming David to the club!”

It had previously been reported that any deal was worth an estimated £8.6million, with the Blues hoping Fofana can somewhat cover Armando Broja, who suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during a friendly against Aston Villa. Fofana had just one year left on his current deal at Molde and it’s believed Todd Boehly sees the forward as one for the future.

So, with that being said, football.london has taken a look at David Datro Fofana and what fans can expect of him once he arrives at Stamford Bridge on January 1.

Who is David Datro Fofana?

Fofana is a 20-year-old striker who plays for Molde in Norway. He has already been capped at international level for his nation, Ivory Coast, and has scored 24 goals in 65 appearances for his club.

Fofana is 5ft 9ins tall but already has strong physical attributes that would allow him to perform in the Premier League. The Ivory Coast international started his career with Academie de Foot Amadou Diallo de Djékanou in his home nation before moving to Molde in 2021.

What will be bring to Chelsea?

Fofana relies on his physicality to hold off and beat opposition players with his pace and strength. Despite being just 20 years old, he has an impressive technical ability and can use skill to beat defenders and open up space for himself to create chances or take shots at goal.

Fofana predominantly plays as a centre-forward but can also play on the right wing due to his electric speed and dribbling qualities. He is composed inside the penalty area and is comfortable with striking the ball on either foot, though has more goals (8) with his right foot compared to with his left (4).

He is strong in the air due to his impressive jumping ability, making him a threat with the ball at his feet and from set pieces or crossing situations. Graham Potter’s track record regarding developing talented youngsters could see Fofana become an all-round, physical striker later in his career as he is very much a raw talent at present.

What has been said?

A video has emerged on social media of Fofana being asked who his favourite club is. The Ivorian forward smiled and responded: “Chelsea!”

source: https://www.football.london/