Leicester Initiates Talks to Sign France International with 236 Top Flight Appearances – Report
As Leicester City looks to wrap up their summer transfer window, reports indicate they have initiated discussions with a Serie A attacker who was recently omitted from his team’s matchday squad.
Leicester Transfer Update
Leicester City’s return to the Premier League has been uneven. They secured a draw against Tottenham Hotspur on the opening day, thanks to Jamie Vardy, but then suffered a defeat to Fulham.
As they adapt to life under Steve Cooper, following the departure of Enzo Maresca, the Foxes are keen to make further signings before the transfer window closes this week.
In their bid to survive in the Premier League, Leicester has been linked with several players, including KRC Gent’s Bilal El Khannouss.
Despite the Moroccan midfielder’s potential, Leicester is reportedly now focusing on a more immediate solution from Serie A.
According to Gianluca Di Marzia, Leicester has started talks with Jonathan Ikone about a possible late move from Fiorentina.
Ikone, who was left out of Fiorentina’s latest squad against Venezia, is a 26-year-old French international with four caps.
While he struggled with form last season, a move to the Premier League could rejuvenate his career.
Ikone would provide competition for Bobby De Cordova-Reid, who has just joined Leicester and is also vying for a starting position.
Although Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly leading the race for Ikone, Leicester still has a chance if they act quickly.
Ikone’s Potential Impact
Ikone’s arrival could provide crucial depth and competition for De Cordova-Reid, potentially enhancing Leicester’s attacking options.
If Ikone regains his previous form, his addition could be a significant boost for Leicester, addressing the lack of dynamism evident in their recent defeat to Fulham.
With 157 Ligue 1 appearances and 79 Serie A appearances, Ikone has experience from his time at PSG, Lille, and Fiorentina.
Despite a dip in form last season, Ikone’s previous record of six goals and eight assists suggests he has the capability to make an impact.
His ability to take on defenders and create opportunities could be a valuable asset for Leicester, particularly alongside the skillful Abdul Fatawu.
Described as a “modern player” by former Fiorentina director Daniele Prade, Ikone has just four days to shift from a challenging period in Italy to a fresh start in the Premier League.
