Opinion: £12m Star Set to Join Leicester City Is Perfect for Van Nistelrooy, Based on 16 Months of Observation
Leicester City Poised to Secure Their First January Transfer Signing.
Ruud van Nistelrooy, having managed Leicester City for just a month, appears set to make several reinforcements during the January transfer window.
With the Foxes conceding 42 goals in the Premier League so far this season, improving their defense is a clear priority.
However, reports suggest attacking additions are also on the agenda, with Leicester competing with Nottingham Forest for striker Petar Musa.
Now, another forward is reportedly close to joining Leicester: Emmanuel Latte Lath from Middlesbrough.
Leicester City Closing in on Emmanuel Latte Lath
Journalist Alan Nixon, writing via his Patreon, claims Leicester are “set to sign” Latte Lath for £12 million.
The 26-year-old Ivorian, who almost joined Ipswich Town in August 2024 before Middlesbrough blocked the move, has been eager to secure a Premier League opportunity.
West Ham United had previously shown interest in him as well.
Latte Lath’s Journey and Playing Style
Latte Lath joined Middlesbrough from Serie A club Atalanta BC in August 2023 and has shown promise despite inconsistency.
Leicester fans can expect a player whose style resembles a young Jamie Vardy.
Rapid and adept at exploiting spaces behind defenses, Latte Lath thrives on playing off the shoulder of the last defender.
However, his performances have been mixed, including a nine-game goal drought earlier in the 2024/25 season.
This inconsistency stems from Middlesbrough’s opponents often setting up deep defensive blocks, which neutralizes his pace-driven strengths.
Why Latte Lath Could Succeed at Leicester
Unlike Middlesbrough, Leicester’s current relegation battle means most opponents will employ a high defensive line, creating opportunities for Latte Lath to utilize his speed effectively.
His finishing is solid, if not exceptional, and his attributes align well with van Nistelrooy’s tactical approach.
If all goes well, Latte Lath could emerge as a long-term successor to Vardy.
