It’s only July, and the race for Leicester City’s Jeremy Monga is still ongoing. The 16-year-old progressed through the Foxes’ academy and has become one of Europe’s most highly regarded talents. There’s no surprise that many clubs are desperate for his signature; the question is where he will choose. Arsenal have been the front-runners for much of the saga, but could a recent twist see Monga sway?
Premier League Giants Battle for Leicester City’s Jeremy Monga
A new twist
In recent weeks, it seemed like Arsenal were cruising towards sealing the deal and ultimately getting one over their rivals. However, this new report from David Ornstein suggests otherwise. He acknowledged Arsenal had begun club-to-club contact, but since then no agreement has been reached. Meanwhile, Manchester City are progressing and are “pushing hard” to sign the teenager. Newly appointed manager Enzo Maresca, of course, spent time at Leicester, which bodes well for the deal. Whilst Monga wasn’t old enough to be around the first team squad at the time, the Italian knows and likes him.
Read More: ‘Club-to-Club contact’ as Leicester Talent Edges Closer To Premier League Move
According to Ben Jacobs, Leicester want around £10m-£12m. However, Arsenal’s latest offer fell far behind the mark as it was closer to £6.5m. If they can’t come to an agreement, a tribunal would have to settle the fee. This wouldn’t be new ground for Leicester as they were embroiled in a tribunal case with Liverpool over Trey Nyoni. It seems like the Foxes are looking to maximise the deal, especially as they enter a season full of unknowns in League One.
How does this affect Leicester City?
A major talking point within the fanbase has been how poorly run the club has been. City’s owners were once the envy of Europe, a stark contrast to the situation they now find themselves in. Outside of the back-to-back relegations, there are significant losses and a hierarchy that is seemingly out of its depth. Last season saw change on this side, with James McCarron named sporting director and Kevin Davies as Chief Executive Officer. The early signs are positive, with them ensuring City aren’t lowballed for a talent like Monga.
Read More: Everton Could Unlock Deal For £15M Leicester City Midfielder
The 16-year-old had a fairly tumultuous first season of men’s football. He started well, tallying a goal and an assist by the end of August. However, from there, he began to come in and out of the team, with Stephy Mavididi often being favoured. The physicality of a league like the Championship, mixed with the toxic atmosphere around the club, was never the right setting for a player like him. The pressure was incredibly high, and so were the expectations, because the reality of relegation finally kicked in. A move to the Premier League looks ideal at this stage, as he will be able to physically develop, and mature in a setting with less pressure.
With Manchester City now leading the race, it would also be a good opportunity to learn from some of the best wingers in the world. The expertise gained from the likes of Jeremy Doku or Antoine Semenyo will be huge at this stage of his career. Players who like to go both ways, just like Monga, but are performing at the highest level. With the platform of the best coaches in the world, who knows how good Monga can become?
Featured Image Credit:
IMAGO / Every Second Media
