Leicester City are reportedly in pursuit of a midfielder before the window closes. With injuries in midfield including Dennis Praet and Wilfred Ndidi, they are looking to reinforce their midfield options. With Hamza Chowdhury’s possible exit too, Leicester are expected to be busy in the final few days of the window.
Leicester Looking for Midfield Reinforcements
Maitland-Niles and Nathaniel Chalobah Emerge as Options for the Foxes
Leicester are reportedly one of a number of clubs interested in the signing of Ainsley Maitland-Niles. According to the Athletic, the King Power would be the Englishman’s destination of choice if he is to leave before the end of the window. Despite shining since Arteta’s arrival, he has fallen out of favour in recent weeks. This could lead to him moving on in this window, with Leicester reportedly keen to sign him on loan.
Maitland-Niles is keen to be deployed in midfield, which a move to Leicester would likely permit. The foxes are also one of the only clubs reportedly willing to involve an option to buy in the deal, which could appeal to the Gunners.
However, given their possible rivalry in the second half of the season, a deal may not be easily struck. Also, with Kieran Tierney’s injury record, and no left-back signing as of yet, Arteta may be forced to keep Maitland-Niles as back up in the full-back position.
Just last summer Wolverhampton Wanderers reportedly had a £20 million bid rejected for the England International. However, his form and lack of game time since may see this value drop in the next window. Maitland-Niles is keen to stake a claim for the England squad. Leicester, competing at the top of the table, will likely give him an opportunity to achieve a spot in the squad for the summer.
According to John Percy of the Telegraph, Watford’s Nathaniel Chalobah is also a name on Leicesters radar. He has been a regular for the Hornets in the Championship this season. With Watford pushing for promotion, currently sat fourth in the table – this is a deal which is likely to be difficult too. However, the former Chelsea midfielder is keen to re-establish himself in the Premier League. The chance to work and improve under Brendan Rodgers will be an attractive one.
Busy End to the Window for the Foxes
With possible moves both in and out of the club, Leicester will be busy in the next few days. Midfield injuries have left them in need of reinforcements and the opportunity for a temporary loan deal is likely to be pursued.
With expectations and prospects high, a solid end to the season is imperative for the foxes. Brendan Rodgers will be looking to avoid a repeat of last season where their early season form eventually tailed off. Reinforcements will strengthen his squad to ensure they are there or thereabouts for the long run.
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