Leicester City transfer state of play, priority striker, two sales and big-money interest | OneFootball

With one week until January opens, Leicester City are prioritising a striker and expect exits to shape their window.

According to LeicesterMercury.co.uk, a move for Michail Antonio looks increasingly likely, with Marti Cifuentes upbeat on his fitness despite over a year without a senior club game. If it falls through, City will again target free agents or loans, as in the summer.

There appears more scope for departures than arrivals, with Wout Faes and Harry Winks possible movers. Faes is seeking a new club because Belgium boss Rudi Garcia is not considering players outside a top division for his summer World Cup squad, while Winks’ recent omission points to an exit.

Winks, Patson Daka and Boubakary Soumare are into the final six months, and a small fee could tempt City if offers come. If Faes goes, Harry Souttar is not in training and they would have three senior centre-backs plus Bade Aluko for cover, which might suffice.

Should Winks leave, competition for Oliver Skipp at the base of midfield is likely to be sought, with Sunderland’s Dan Neil, captain during last season’s promotion but now out of favour, viewed as an ideal loan. A left-back is possible, with Victor Kristiansen sidelined and Luke Thomas lacking pressure on his place.

Clubs could also revisit Abdul Fatawu. Sunderland were linked with a £28m summer bid, and he has since delivered 10 goals and assists in 22 matches, easing concerns after his ACL tear. Whether any offer would tempt City is for the club to judge.

Source: LeicesterMercury.co.uk