Leicester Favorites to Secure Big-Money Signing as “Wonderful” KDH Replacement – Opinion
Leicester City have been active in the transfer window as they prepare for their return to the Premier League, adding new talents to their squad. Caleb Okoli, Bobby Decordova-Reid, and Michael Golding have all joined the team, and the news of Wilfred Ndidi’s contract renewal at the King Power Stadium adds to the excitement.
Ndidi might even find himself playing alongside a new central midfield partner if Leicester manages to secure an ambitious transfer target.
Leicester Seeking Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall Replacement
According to TEAMTalk, Leicester is aiming to sign Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley for over £25 million and is currently in a strong position to do so. However, reports from Football Insider suggest that Atalanta might have the financial advantage and a better reputation in Serie A, potentially giving them an edge over Leicester, who will be fighting to avoid relegation.
Despite this, TEAMTalk indicates that the allure of the Premier League could sway O’Riley towards joining Leicester over a move to Italy. Leicester is keen to add the highly sought-after 23-year-old to their squad as a quick replacement for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
What O’Riley Can Offer Leicester
O’Riley has made a significant impact in Scottish football over the past few seasons and could be just what Leicester needs to replace their former homegrown talent, Dewsbury-Hall, who has departed for Chelsea. As Leicester aims to build a competitive squad to stay in the Premier League, O’Riley’s attributes make him an attractive option.
Much like Dewsbury-Hall, O’Riley has been a consistent goalscoring threat from midfield during his two-year tenure with Celtic. Brendan Rodgers praised the “wonderful” 23-year-old during the 23/24 season. O’Riley has amassed an impressive 27 goals and 34 assists in 121 appearances for Celtic, with 37 of those contributions coming in the last season alone, showcasing his ability to trouble defenders.
O’Riley’s impressive stats suggest he could fill the void left by Dewsbury-Hall while also providing Leicester with another option in defensive midfield. The Denmark international is known for his ability to play both defensively and offensively, making him a versatile addition to the squad.
A Worthy Gamble for Leicester?
While bidding a significant amount for O’Riley might seem risky given his limited experience in English football with Milton Keynes Dons and Fulham, the Premier League could be the next logical step in his career. Leicester needs a creative and adaptable central presence to complement players like the combative Ndidi and the versatile Harry Winks.
Leicester could make a bold move to secure O’Riley’s signature soon, aiming to make a statement ahead of their return to the Premier League.
