Leicester City are bracing themselves for a fight to retain their valuable assets, Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi, as the January transfer window approaches.
Various clubs have expressed their interest in acquiring the duo, as reported by Teamtalk.
Ndidi and Iheanacho have been instrumental in Leicester’s championship campaign this season. As of now, they have made 12 and 15 league appearances respectively, contributing a total of six goals and four assists. The Foxes currently sit at the top of the table with a four-point lead over second-placed Ipswich Town.
Leicester experienced significant departures during the summer transfer window, following their relegation from the Premier League. Players like Caglar Soyuncu, Harvey Barnes, James Maddison, and Youri Tielemans all left the club.
However, Ndidi and Iheanacho could follow suit in January when the transfer market reopens.
Reports suggest that several clubs are closely monitoring the availability of the Leicester duo. Premier League sides Brentford, Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United have displayed interest in Ndidi, while European giants Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have also enquired about his availability. Ligue 1 sides Monaco and Lyon have also shown interest in the Nigerian midfielder.
Iheanacho has also attracted attention from top-flight clubs, with Brentford considering him as a potential replacement for Ivan Toney should the forward depart in January. Crystal Palace and West Ham have also expressed their interest in signing the Leicester striker.
Both Ndidi and Iheanacho’s contracts are set to expire at the end of the season, indicating that they could potentially sign pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs in January or leave as free agents in the summer.
Leicester’s position at the top of the Championship table makes the retention of these two key players crucial. It is recommended that the club prioritize contract discussions with Ndidi, whose contributions have been invaluable. However, considering the depth of attacking options available, it might be wise for Leicester to consider selling Iheanacho in January.
Leicester’s situation with two key players entering the final stages of their contracts reflects poor planning. Losing Tielemans and Soyuncu as free agents last summer should serve as a lesson for the club to avoid such situations in the future.
