Newcastle United the favourites to land Leicester City wantaway Islam Slimani

Newcastle United have emerged as the leading contenders for Leicester City wantaway Islam Slimani’s signature.

The 29-year old has probably had the worst period of his career since Claude Puel has taken over at Leicester City, enjoying just ten minutes on the pitch for the Foxes (against Tottenham Hotspur) under the Frenchman.

As the forward was dropped for the Carabao Cup quarter-final despite being the competition’s leading goal scorer with four goals, there were further questions raised about the Algerian’s future at the King Power Stadium. The former Sporting CP striker has now been dropped for five games running.

His time nearing its inevitable end, the £29 million man has been linked with a number of clubs, and leading the line are Newcastle United at 6/4 according to a bookmaker, with Watford (5/2), West Bromwich Albion (7/2) and Stoke City 4/1 placed below them.

Related Story: Leicester City (3)1-1(4) Manchester City: Player ratings

It has been reported that Rafael Benitez has enquired about Islam Slimani, and he’s ready to bring him to St. James’ Park following his side’s slump in form, as they now face a relegation battle. The Magpies’ interest is a bit of a surprise, considering the number of times Slimani has been linked with Watford.

The Leicester City forward had the most prolific phase of his career under Watford boss Marco Silva at Sporting, and it is very likely that he’d want to reunite with him to rediscover his scoring touch.

Next: Leicester City (3)1-1 (4) Manchester City AET: Lessons learned

Among the other players who could follow him out of Leicester City is Ahmed Musa, who was bought in the same summer as Slimani. The Nigerian is a reported target for Hull City.