Leicester City’s two new transfer targets
By Josh Curnock
Reports have emerged today that Leicester City have two new transfer targets lined up after completing their third signing of the transfer window yesterday. James Maddison adding to the signings of Ricardo Pereira and Jonny Evans so far.
Sky Sports are reporting that the Foxes are interested in Hertha BSC left back Marvin Plattenhardt. The 26-year-old is currently in Russia with the Germany squad – He started the only game for the Germans in their 1-0 defeat to Mexico at the FIFA World Cup.
Plattenhardt made 33 appearances in the Bundesliga last season, recording 7 assists. The Hertha left back is better known for his attacking prowess rather than his defensive ability though. He has made 7 appearances for the German international side.
If Claude Puel was to bring Plattenhardt to the King Power Stadium it will throw further doubt to Christian Fuchs’ Leicester career – The Austrian has one year on his contract left, however Fuchs is known to want a move to America in the MLS to be closer to his family.
Should the Foxes go after Plattenhardt they will face competition for him from Everton and Watford who are both looking to strengthen the left back position.
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Leicester are also interested in Basel winger Mohamed Elyounoussi according to reports in the Leicester Mercury. The Norwegian International has 16 international caps to his name since making his debut in 2014
The 23-year-old who predominantly plays as a left winger, made 7 appearances in the Champions League for Basel last season – With 2 goals and 1 assists.
Ian Burchall – former assistant manager of Basel, has confirmed Leicester’s interest in the right footed winger.
"“When I was finishing my Uefa Pro Licence, I did a little study trip and spent five days in Leicester.He was on their radar a while back. Publicly, as well. I think it was public knowledge that they were tracking him a little bit. They asked me about him and I said I really believed that he could play at that level.I was not surprised when he scored against Man City. I sent him a message because I was really proud of him. I had him when he was 18, 19 breaking into the first-team. What a talent.Forget his skills, his mentality – he is a tough kid mentally. He is ready to work and train and do extra. He is probably the best I have worked with at first-team level. ”Ian Burchall was speaking to Nordic Football Podcast."
If Leicester were to pursue Elyounoussi however would it be a possible replacement for Riyad Mahrez? Or Demarai Gray? Both have also been linked with moves away from the King Power Stadium.