Foxes in the market: Leicester City preparing for life after Riyad Mahrez

WATFORD, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 19: Troy Deeney of Watford persues Riyad Mahrez of Leicester City during the Premier League match between Watford and Leicester City at Vicarage Road on November 19, 2016 in Watford, England. (Photo by Tony Marshall/Getty Images)
WATFORD, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 19: Troy Deeney of Watford persues Riyad Mahrez of Leicester City during the Premier League match between Watford and Leicester City at Vicarage Road on November 19, 2016 in Watford, England. (Photo by Tony Marshall/Getty Images) /
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Leicester City are preparing for life after Riyad Mahrez, as the club look to sign Watford’s Troy Deeney – that’s according to the Daily Mirror

By now, it’s quite clear that there is indeed some truth to the reports linking Mahrez with Arsenal, the North London outfit being serious about their chase of the Algerian star.

The Gunners are expected to announce the record signing of Alexandre Lacazette very soon, following which they could speed up a move for Mahrez.

The 26-year already made his intentions clear earlier this summer, making it be known that he was up for grabs for any top club. His departure now imminent, City are assessing their options, and Troy Deeney is top of their list.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 13: Riyad Mahrez of Leicester City scores a penalty which is later disallowed during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Leicester City at Etihad Stadium on May 13, 2017 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 13: Riyad Mahrez of Leicester City scores a penalty which is later disallowed during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Leicester City at Etihad Stadium on May 13, 2017 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) /

The Foxes saw a £25 million bid rejected by Watford last season, however, Craig Shakespeare isn’t willing to give up on the 29-year old as he looks to fill the gap that Mahrez’s exit would leave.   The Foxes are expected are make a fresh £20 million offer for Deeney.

The Watford Captain, although he isn’t as skilful and talented as Riyad Mahrez, would be a good signing for Leicester. What the Englishman lacks in  skill, he makes up for with his pace and prowess, which will certainly help Leicester City’s counter-attacking style of play.

Troy Deeney has scored 23 goals as well as assisting 12 for the Cherries since their promotion to England’s top tier. In comparison, Riyad Mahrez has the same number of goals in that time, while his assist tally stands at 14 – just two more than Deeney.