David Datro Fofana has sent out an emotional thank you message to his former club Molde after officially becoming a Chelsea player earlier this week. The 20-year-old joined on January 1 after a £10m deal was agreed for his services several weeks earlier.
Fofana is the first official signing under Graham Potter though Christopher Nkunku is also expected to join later in 2023. The striker is just one of many pieces of business that the Blues are attempting over the next month in order to strengthen their squad ahead of a tricky second part of the season.
Todd Boehly is also keen on adding midfielder Enzo Fernandez and Benoit Badiashile to Potter's options with the latter already at an extremely advanced stage. Fofana is already across the line though and was spoken about by the manager ahead of a giant match against Manchester City.
READ MORE:Graham Potter outlines David Datro Fofana plan and explains big transfer problem facing Chelsea
When asked about the plan for Fofana, who has been linked with an immediate loan move away from the club to continue his development until the end of the season, Potter explained: "We still need to wait for the clearances and all those formalities.
"He’s been on a bit of a break so we’ll give him some time to train, to assess him, and then work out the best solution in terms of taking the next step in his career."
In the Norwegian league Fofana scored 15 times in 24 matches with five assists in 2022 but hasn't played since November. He was seen in the stands at the City Ground days after being announced as a Chelsea player to watch the 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest.
In a heartfelt goodbye to his former club, who he joined in 2021, he wrote: "I'm moving to a new stage in my life and all of this wouldn't have been possible without you my colleagues my coaches the caregivers so thank you!
"Thank you, for the moments of joy, for making me grow as an athlete and as a person. You are part of my evolution and I will be eternally grateful to you. As Ernie Harwel would say: "It's time to say goodbye, but I think goodbyes are sad and I'd rather say hello. Hello to a new adventure!
"Family forever."
Fofana was given his big breakthrough as a player by Molde after moving from home country Ivory Coast. He played for Abidjan City FC before that and has already made an international appearance for his country.
READ NEXT:
Enzo Fernandez and Benoit Badiashile prove Todd Boehly's Chelsea transfer plan is working
Chelsea 'chaotic' under Todd Boehly says Gary Neville amid ongoing form and fitness concerns
Koulibaly replaced, Ziyech steps up – Three Chelsea changes Graham Potter must make vs Man City
Chelsea agree £33.6m Benoit Badiashile transfer amid London medical as personal terms agreed
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge