Potential Transfers at the King Power Stadium

Article by Sam Bassett

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Whether or not there is truth behind the current rumours, linking Leicester City with a number of players, we do not know. However, it is clear that Nigel Pearson must strengthen the squad in order to avoid a second relegation battle.

The strongest rumours pitch Leicester just days away from signing Wolves winger Bakary Sako, with the club and agent having agreed the players wage demands. Sako has proved his class in the Championship for the past couple of seasons, and has arguably deserved this call up to the top flight.

Bakary Sako

Secondly, a strong link with French midfielder N’golo Kante from SM Caen sees Leicester ‘pushing hard’ to getting his signature. This to be a logical move as we have a limited number of players in the middle of the park, with James out for the majority of the season, as well as Hammond and Cambiasso out of contracts. Kante’s energy and pace could be a refreshing difference infront of the backline and is one of Pearson’s main priorities.

However, it is almost certain that Nigel Pearson’s main focus will be keeping Esteban Cambiasso for yet another season. The Argentine’s influence was an important factor in City’s survival; as his goals, assists but most of all mentality and leadership inspired the other less-experienced players to step-up their game and perform.

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Recently, there has been reports of interest in Brentford midfielder Jota, who is also targeted by Championship side Derby. Jota provided goals to last season, and certainly ensured his place on many managers’ transfer shortlist. Another sudden rumour sees City linked with youngster Kenji Gorre from Swansea. The 20-year-old forward is also linked with a move to Premier League rivals Sunderland however, so a fight for a signature may be on the horizon.

Questions of New Zealand striker Chris Wood will have increased, as reports claiming the Foxes are also linked with French forward Jonathon Kodija. The forward has scored bags of goals for Ligue 2 side Angers SCO, and has unsurprisingly sparked interest from Rennes, Lille and Cardiff City. This report coming after there has been a silence on the Okazaki rumours, who looked all but certain to leave Bundesliga side Mainz for Leicester this summer.

On the other hand, Ghanaian wingback Jeffrey Schlupp is the target of fellow Premier League sides Arsenal and Aston Villa. The full back was a crucial part in the side’s survival last season with his quick adaption to Pearson’s revitalised philosophy, which saw him play as the left wing back in a five-at-the-back formation. Due to this, there are rumours that Pearson will host negotiations with the player over a new contract with the club – thus dismissing the interest from other clubs.

Albiet exciting, talking about new players coming in, Leicester fans must keep in mind the experience the current players will own over the linked players, and the importance of experience in a league like the Prem – as showcased by Cambiasso.