Russell Martin ‘in advanced talks’ as Stolarczyk call looms for Leicester | OneFootball

Leicester City face a major rebuild after relegation, and a decision on goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk could be the first clear call, with Russell Martin’s preferred style likely to weigh heavily.

The Telegraph reports that Martin is in advanced talks over the job, while Dutchman Rene Hake has also been linked. Whatever the appointment, a significant overhaul of the squad is expected.

Stolarczyk, 25, joined in 2017 and only became a regular last season. He missed four games in November through injury and was then dropped after Marti Cifuentes left, before Gary Rowett recalled him in late February for a 2-0 win at Bristol City, the first clean sheet since September.

Concerns over shot-stopping, crosses and distribution persisted, though he finished the season back in the side. He has one year left on his deal. Meczyki reports that Wieczysta Krakow are interested as they look to strengthen in goal.

Martin favours possession and ball-playing keepers. At Southampton, Gavin Bazunu often built attacks, and the Saints had the Championship’s highest average possession, above Enzo Maresca’s Leicester. Stolarczyk completed 67.1 percent of his passes last season compared with Bazunu’s 85.95 percent in the promotion year.

With League One football ahead in August, a move could suit club and player. Stolarczyk has Premier League and Championship experience and may favour regular top-flight football in Poland. Should such an offer arrive, and given Martin’s likely preferences, his exit could be the most obvious move of the summer.

Source: LeicesterMercury.co.uk