Chelsea 'cancel transfer deal' as star sent back to club with new decision imminent

Chelsea have reportedly recalled David Datro Fofana from his loan spell in Turkey, with a number of clubs interested in signing him permanently. The striker moved to Stamford Bridge in 2023 but has only made three senior appearances for the Blues. He has been spending the season on loan at Karagumruk, scoring seven goals in 14 appearances.

Fofana's impressive form has led to the possibility of a permanent move away from Chelsea before the end of this month. He is thought to be attracting significant interest, with several teams eager to strike a bargain deal for his signature. The west Londoners are reportedly keen to cash in on the 23-year-old, who appears to have no future at the club.

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They have taken the first step towards achieving that goal by recalling Fofana from his loan spell, according to BBC Sport. Teams in England and throughout Europe are said to be queuing up for a chance to sign him on a permanent basis.

Celtic have already been linked with a possible move for Fofana, given their striker troubles over the course of the current campaign. He is also said to be a target for Derby County, while Belgian side Royal Antwerp are thought to be monitoring his situation.

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Chelsea are reportedly working on a permanent exit for the forward, who has been loaned out in each of the last three seasons.

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After signing for the Blues in 2023, he was shipped to Union Berlin but was recalled in January before spending the rest of the campaign at Burnley.

The following season, Fofana was loaned to newly-promoted Turkish side Goztepe. Once again, he was called back ahead of schedule after picking up an injury that would keep him out until the summer.

Fofana recently apologised to Chelsea fans for his failure to make an impact there, having not scored a single goal for the Club World Cup champions since moving to England three years ago.

In an interview with reporter Rudy Galetti, he said: "To Chelsea and their fans: thank you for believing in me, and I’m sorry I couldn’t give you the version of myself you deserved at that time.

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"Today, I’m more grounded. I understand football better, but more importantly, I understand myself better. I’m calmer, more disciplined, and more aware of my responsibilities within a team."

It remains to be seen where Fofana will end up in the event of a permanent exit, with two weeks remaining until the January window slams shut.

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