Ruud van Nistelrooy signals potential decision on Odsonne Edouard before January transfer window

Leicester City may terminate Odsonne Edouard’s loan next month to open a spot for manager Ruud van Nistelrooy to strengthen his squad.

Edouard, who joined on loan from Crystal Palace on deadline day this summer, has struggled to make an impact, featuring only in four league matches as a substitute.

With Patson Daka now fit, the French striker hasn’t even made the bench since van Nistelrooy’s arrival.

Van Nistelrooy confirmed that Edouard’s future will be reviewed in January.

Premier League regulations allow clubs to have a maximum of two loan players from within the league.

With Brighton’s Facundo Buonanotte highly regarded and guaranteed to stay, Edouard is the likely candidate to make way if Leicester opts for a new loan signing.

“We have three number nines: Jamie [Vardy], Patson, and Edou,” said van Nistelrooy. “Every game requires decisions on who to include in the squad.

So far, it’s been Jamie and Patson. Edouard is fit and training, so things can change, but that’s where we are now.

“It’s a valid point that he occupies a loan spot. Players need a clear perspective, and in Edouard’s case, we need to address his situation closely. It’s under consideration.”

Edouard may feature in Leicester’s Boxing Day clash against Liverpool, as Vardy is a doubt.

If the captain is unavailable, Daka could make his first start of the season, with Edouard providing bench support.

Leicester’s decision will hinge on whether they believe replacing Edouard with a new loanee would better serve the squad’s needs.