[인터풋볼] Reporter Park Ji-won = The atmosphere is not serious.
“Chelsea are preparing a new offer for Popana,” said Fabricio Romano, a European transfer market expert. They are contemplating an add-on structure, and the expected transfer fee is £75 million (about 118 billion won). Leicester are waiting for a bid to make a decision as Popana wants only Chelsea.”
“Popana will not be in the squad for the weekend against Chelsea. He is still training at U-23. The player wants to join Chelsea as soon as possible.”
Chelsea signed Khalidu Coulibaly this summer, but the centre-back still needs reinforcements. In response, they are targeting French national center back Popana born in 2000. Popana, who made her debut at AS Saint-Etienne, moved to Leicester in 2020 to play in the English Premier League (EPL). At the time, Challar Søwinsie was injured and formed a defensive line with Johnny Evans. His solid defense was impressive.
As young as he is, he has a lot of potential. Popana is 190cm tall and has a wide range of activities, intercepts, tackles, and speed, as well as air power. Last season, he didn’t play many games due to a major injury during the pre-season, but he is still considered a promising resource.
Chelsea are trying to sign Popana for a huge transfer fee. Earlier, they had offered 60 million pounds (about 94.5 billion won) and 70 million pounds (about 110.5 billion won), but were rejected. Then this time it will be raised to 75 million pounds.
The player has already gone to Chelsea. Popana was removed from the roster in the third round of the EPL against Southampton on the 20th and watched the match from the stands. You can tell by your attitude. Popana didn’t react, despite his teammate James Madison scoring the opening goal. In addition, he was not included in the roster for the English Football League Cup (EFL Cup) against Stockford.
Popana is currently training at the U-23 and will miss out on the 27th against Chelsea. Lester’s manager Brandon Rogers said: “The situation will become clearer when the transfer window closes.”
The British press see the Chelsea proposal as likely to determine Popana’s fate.
Photo = Reynos, Getty Images