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Why David Datro Fofana to AEK Athens move fell through as Chelsea look for transfer solution

Chelsea loanee David Datro Fofana in action for Burnley.
-Credit: (Image: Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)


David Datro Fofana's move to AEK Athens has fallen through, according to reports. The Chelsea forward was on the verge of making a move to the Greek Super League on loan with the option of a permanent move.

Clubs in the region of South Eastern Europe had until Wednesday to finalise deals until the window closed but the Greek giants missed out on the chance to land the 21-year-old. According to Ben Jacobs, AEK requested a change in terms after verbal agreement was reached which left the move hanging in the balance as the deadline ticked closer.

Chelsea, who sold a number of fringe players in the summer, were expected to sanction a temporary move with the possibility of a permanent £20million transfer. Fabrizio Romano added that the Blues are hoping to find a solution for the Ivorian with both the club and the player's camp looking for a resolution to his future.

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Datro Fofana made the move to Stamford Bridge in 2023 after Chelsea paid £8.4million, luring him away from Norwegian club Molde. In four appearances for the Blues, he has failed to find the target and has been on two loan spells with Union Berlin and Burnley, scoring six goals in 34 outings across two stints.

"Chelsea have been my favorite club since I was little," Fofana said after arriving in London. "Drogba played there, so they have always been my club. So it's my dream."

Forty-one players have already departed SW6 as Chelsea face the threat of Profit and Sustainability following the Premier League's clamp down on over-spending in the English top-flight. Fofana could still add to that list with his representatives looking for an avenue for first-team football this season but the majority of the transfer windows are currently shut.

Turkey could be an option with their window open before the market closes on Friday, September 13. Chelsea target Victor Osimhen ended his turbulent time with Napoli after securing a loan move to giants Galatasaray and BBC Sport's Nizaar Kinsella suggested that clubs from the Super League will hijack a move for the forward after the AEK Athens prospect collapsed.