Leicester City want away star Riyad Mahrez is still strongly fancied to move to Italian giants AS Roma, but Tottenham Hotspur are ‘monitoring’ the situation and could make a move to take the Algerian international to Wembley Stadium.
Mahrez played, and scored, for the Foxes in their triumph over West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League Asia Trophy, where they will now face Liverpool in the final on Sunday July 23rd in Hong Kong. Mahrez is expected to play in that game also, but Roma have stepped up their interest in the Leicester forward, and are wanting to conclude a deal sooner rather than later.
However Tottenham Hotspur have asked to be kept appraised of developments, although they have stated they will only make a firm offer should Leicester be willing to drop their £50 million asking price for Mahrez. Leicester clearly want top price for their man, but are running the risk of pricing themselves out of a deal with all parties. Whilst they will be happy to retain Mahrez, that feeling is not at all mutual. We expect to see Leicester eventually reduce the asking price, although with add ons it could yet reach around £40 million.
Manchester City Forward Incoming
One transfer almost certain to happen is the arrival of Kelechi Iheanacho from Manchester City, with City boss Pep Guardiola admitting the player will leave the club ‘by the end of the month’. Although he didn’t state that Leicester would be Iheanacho’s destination, it is widely expected that it will be soon confirmed that Leicester are paying City £25 million for the 20 year old forward.
City left Iheanacho behind as they flew out to the States for their pre season tour, which confirms his days at the Etihad Stadium are over.
New Keeper Arrives
Leicester have completed the signing of Hull City goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic on a three year deal for £2.25 million.
Jakupovic, 32, arrives at the King Power Stadium with a big reputation and is expected to provide stern competition for the number one jersey – though is under no illusion about the size of the task he faces, as he told Leicester City TV :
“”I’m very happy and excited that the deal is finally done. I’m very excited to be a part of something special here and I can’t wait for the first game.
“I knew from the beginning that it will be difficult for myself because Kasper (Schmeichel) is one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League.
“I’m going to fight and I’m here to push. A healthy competition is always good and that’s only a positive thing. For sure, I’ll wait for my chance but I am here and I’m very excited.”