Following reports of Leicester City’s PSR issues, yet another player looks to be on their way out. Boubakary Soumare initially arrived in the East Midlands back in 2021 for a fee of £17 million ; a price that feels so alien to supporters now. Over the years, the Frenchman has never really established himself in the starting eleven, with a lack of consistency being apparent. Despite links to Monaco, could the 26-year-old be set for a more lucrative move to the Middle East?
Leicester Fire Sale Continues Ahead Of Several Contract Expiries This Summer
Boubakary Soumare: Set To Leave?
As reported by Rob Dorestt, Soumare’s move may be complete as early as this week. Finalising terms is already close with Al Duhail SC, who sit sixth in the Qatar Stars League. Soumare wouldn’t be the first player from Europe to make the switch to Duhail, as several others are already in the squad. Perhaps the most well-known figure is Marco Verratti, who is still only 33 years old and was playing for PSG just three years ago.
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The deal comes as a result of Leicester being keen to reduce its wage bill. With another year in the EFL, more than likely, removing the higher earners associated with Premier League relegation is key. This is also why the likes of Wout Faes, Conor Coady, Danny War, and James Justin were all offloaded this season. Leicester’s battle with PSR has been well-documented, and with another transfer window of no signings, it’s no surprise they are trying to recoup some cash.
Dorsett also added that there is no indication on whether or not the players are keen on the move. However, with the two clubs talking, City will be eager to make another sale ahead of the deadline. Currently, it looks likely that the Foxes will continue the campaign with no additions, as there have been very few credible links. With yet another player leaving, and potentially no replacements, they could struggle even more as the season goes on.
How Does This Affect Leicester?
Whilst Soumare’s leaving is ideal financially, the next manager to take the hot seat is likely to have an even weaker squad. Jordan James has been City’s midfield talisman, but with him and Skipp injured, the likes of Louis Page and Hamza Choudhury have had to take on the reins. This duo are still in their infancy together, but after the most recent defeat to Oxford, it is clear that new profiles need to come in.
There is also Harry Winks, but there are question marks over his future too after sitting out for much of the past year. If the speculation over a points deduction does come true and the teamare left with fewer options in midfield, could they be brought into a relegation battle?
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Nonetheless, outside of the ramifactions on this season, selling Soumare is a positive. He’s on high wages, and with just a few months left on his deal, any fee would be helpful. Overall, the Frenchman’s time in the East Midlands has been unsuccessful, especially given his high potential upon arrival. He’s never been able to reach the top level, but moving to Qatar at 26 years-old still seems like a waste of potential. Clubs like Monaco did show interest, but his ambition and motivation have always been under question whilst at City.
According to Capology, the French player is on £80,000 a week, meaning his exit now could save them roughly £2 million in total on wages.
