Harry Winks replacement and an Enzo Maresca favour, six Leicester City January loan targets | OneFootball

Leicester City are likely to prioritise loans in January as a way to strengthen amid Profit and Sustainability uncertainty.

According to LeicesterMercury.co.uk, two of City’s three loanees have impressed, while Julian Carranza is yet to make his mark. With only five loanees permitted in a matchday squad, there is space for two more unless Carranza departs.

Sunderland’s Dan Neil is seen as a short-term replacement for Harry Winks amid doubts over his future. He captained the Black Cats to promotion last season but has only two Premier League cameos this term. If not Neil, Fulham’s Harrison Reed has one league appearance and brings reliable control at the base of midfield.

Up front, a free move for Michail Antonio would ease the need, but if not, a loan finisher should be targeted. Chelsea’s Shim Mheuka is a gamble with only six senior games, yet he has 24 in 20 for youth sides and could now test himself on loan.

Leeds striker Joel Piroe would bring experience. He is said to be unavailable in January, but that might change given his minutes, with no Premier League starts since August. After 19 goals and seven assists last season, he fits but is perhaps the hardest to sign.

Defensively, Leeds’ Sam Byram has not played since August but made 36 appearances last season and could compete with Luke Thomas at left-back or provide cover. Burnley’s Hannes Delcroix, omitted from their Premier League squad, can play left-back and centre-back and impressed on loan at Swansea.

Source: LeicesterMercury.co.uk