Chelsea have shortlisted Brighton defender Adam Webster as a potential alternative to Wesley Fofana, according to reports. The 21-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge this summer as Thomas Tuchel looks to bolster his backline following the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
football.london understand that Fofana feels as if Leicester City are trying to price him out of a move by requesting a world-record fee for his services. It's believed that the Frenchman has already agreed personal terms over a move to west London, but the Blues have seen two offers – with the highest being around £70million – turned down by the Foxes.
Chelsea are expected to submit a third bid in the region of £80million and have growing confidence that it will be accepted by their Premier League rivals. However, with just 10 days until the summer transfer window slams shut, Fofana is yet to depart the King Power Stadium and, in the event that a deal falls through, alternatives have emerged.
READ MORE: Todd Boehly can sign perfect 'Didier Drogba heir' if Chelsea win £40m transfer race with Man Utd
According to the MailOnline, Webster is listed by Chelsea as somebody who can bolster Tuchel's defence. The report states that the Blues have made enquiries about a handful of defenders in case a fee cannot be agreed with Brendan Rodgers' side.
But, while the 27-year-old - who sees his contract at the AMEX Stadium expire in 2026 - is believed to have ben the subject of interest from the west Londoners, he has said that Brighton "feels like home". Speaking to Sky Sports in January, Webster said: "I had a good season last season and the club rewarded me with a new contract, which I was delighted about as I've loved every minute here ever since I joined.
"It literally feels like home to me. And long may that continue as it is a great club, with a great setup and we are striving for an improvement each year and that is all you want as players. You come in every day and get better and that is definitely the culture we have here at this club."
And, it's fair to say that Graham Potter won't give up Webster's services easily. The Brighton boss is a huge admirer of the £12.7million-rated defender's technical ability, which has been pivotal to the south coast side going toe-to-toe with the Premier League's best.
"That is what Adam brings for us, that is his quality, both sides," said Potter. "He has been fantastic and helps us to build our attacks. He was an important signing for us and an important player."
READ NEXT:
Thomas Tuchel new Chelsea attack if £22m Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang transfer is confirmed
Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel responds to Christian Pulisic and Callum Hudson-Odoi transfer talk
Chelsea must spend £18m more to sign Ivan Toney over Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Full Chelsea Premier League fixture list for 2022/23
Chelsea transfer business under the microscope in 'good deal' or 'bad deal'
