Patson Daka joined Leicester City back in 2021, following a sensational stint with RB Salzburg. He scored 68 goals in 125 appearances for the Austrian side and even caught the eye of clubs like Liverpool. However, his tenure in the East Midlands has been completely different as he has scored just 23 goals in his four full seasons. The forward’s struggles were epitomised by the 2024/25 season as he found the net just once, and was kept out of the side by an ageing Jamie Vardy. Due to this, a move away looked likely, but problems have emerged.
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Leicester City Striker Set To Stay Due To Valuation
Patson Daka: Staying?
As reported by John Percy, Daka’s proposed move to Real Betis appears off. The Spanish side has been busy this deadline day, as they have already secured Antony from Manchester United. There has been interest in Daka for several years, as the Zambian’s pace and energy could translate well to a new league.
Percy adds that the Foxes have been seeking £10 million for the forward. However, Betis haven’t got near the lucrative valuation, which could lead to the 26-year-old remaining in England for another season. Marti Cifuentes even acknowledged Daka as his only recognised striker, which makes a move away even less likely.
How Does This Affect Leicester City
Although Daka isn’t the perfect option to lead the line, staying could help the Foxes on deadline day. Finding a replacement is always going to be hard, and although Julian Carranza looks set to arrive, it isn’t clear whether he will be an improvement. Furthermore, he hasn’t had an awful start to the season, as his pressing and energy are valuable to Cifuentes’ style of play.
On the other hand, a move away could also have positively affected all parties. This is because Daka needs to move away from English football, as it is clear he isn’t good enough. Former City winger Matt Piper even described him as having “zero confidence left” following a fourth defeat to Manchester United last season.
As for Leicester, it would be helpful as the money could go toward a new replacement, who is more suited to Cifuentes’ system. Links to Mihailo Ivanovic have been clear; however, Millwall’s £12 million valuation is the issue. By selling Daka, it could have opened up space for a Championship-proven forward, who is still young and able to develop into a real asset.
