Leicester City’s plan for £20m transfer exit should cost £0 - Here is why | OneFootball

The Foxes already possess the perfect ready-made replacement for Mads Hermansen

Leicester City are facing the inevitable departure of Mads Hermansen to West Ham United, but the Foxes already possess the perfect ready-made replacement.

West Ham have agreed a deal worth approximately £20m with Leicester for Hermansen, and the Danish international is set to undergo his medical in London on Friday.

Hermansen arrived in the East Midlands from Brondby for an undisclosed fee on a five-year deal in 2023, and has played a total of 72 games across all competitions.

Stolarczyk ready to step up immediately

However, Leicester should feel confident about their goalkeeping situation thanks to Jakub Stolarczyk. The 24-year-old shot-stopper has been at the club since 2017, joining the youth academy from Polish seventh-tier side Piast Chęciny.

His development through the ranks means he's followed in the footsteps of legendary graduates like Peter Shilton, Gary Lineker - and more recently - Ben Chilwell and Harvey Barnes.

Stolarczyk made his senior Leicester debut in a 2-0 away win against Burton Albion in the EFL Cup on 9th August 2023, before making his league debut three days later in a 1-0 victory at Huddersfield Town.

Perhaps his standout moment came in March 2024 - when he played in the Foxes' FA Cup quarter-final away defeat to Chelsea - saving a penalty from Raheem Sterling in the first half.

Perfect time for Stolarzyk to stake a claim

During the 24/25 season, Stolarczyk made 10 appearances in the top-flight - and despite their relegation - the goalkeeper kept two clean sheets and made 28 saves.

At 6ft 4in, Stolarczyk has the physical presence required for a Championship keeper. His loan spells at Dunfermline, Fleetwood Town, and Hartlepool United all added much-needed experience. Dunfermline's John Hughes noted his "sensational" performance on debut north of the border.

The timing of Hermansen's exit could not be better for Stolarczyk's development. At 24, he is at the ideal age to take on the number one role permanently.

His familiarity with the Foxes' playing style should disregard the fact that he's only played two games in the Championship, because he's played more frequently at a higher level.

Leicester playing Stolarczyk will save money

While Leicester will receive around £20m for Hermansen, promoting Stolarczyk holds very good value. According to Capology estimates, the Pole receives £10k-per-week, making him one of the lower earners in the squad for 25/26.

His contract runs until 2027, providing Leicester with security and the option to develop him in a similar way to Hermansen - and he could be one of these successful Foxes academy products who go on to fetch a large fee - like Harvey Barnes to Newcastle for £38m.

Stolarczyk's readiness to assume the number one role means Leicester can redirect the funds from Hermansen's sale towards strengthening other areas of the squad.

The East Midlands outfit have already brought in Asmir Begovic - obviously another goalkeeper - who is their only signing of the summer window so far.

It still remains to be seen whether the club could face a points deduction after beinh charged with apparently breaching the EFL's financial rules, but Stolarczyk would cost Leicester absolutely nothing while being good enough for more consistent football.