Leicester should go for Adnan Januzaj

Leicester City are contemplating a move for former Manchester United starlet Adnan Januzaj. It will take around £53m to secure the winger, is he worth it?

Leicester City need to replace some Mahrez magic this coming season. Time is running out; but is the perfect option still available? With the inflated prices in the transfer market becoming the norm, clubs will not pick up a player like Adnan Januzaj for less than £40m-£50m.

It appears the Foxes are reportedly seriously considering paying the £53m release clause. That is if Manchester United decide against a buy back option. They most likely do not require the player with an abundance of similar options. In addition to his time there previously being indifferent.

Although Leicester have a Januzaj shaped hole to fill. According to the Mirror, ‘Leicester are eyeing the Belgian man.’

"“Leicester are seriously considering a move for Adnan Januzaj. The Foxes are eyeing a replacement for Riyad Mahrez. Januzaj has a €60m release clause at Real Sociedad but United have the option to buy him back for a lower fee. That is extremely unlikely, though.” (Via: Mirror Sport)"

Respected Belgian sports journalist Kristof Terreur describes the Midlands club as ‘seriously interested’ in the 23-year-old. Therefore we asked the Blue Army their thoughts on the matter. My impression is the general consensus among supporters is that he is a wanted player. However, there are questions over his consistency; not to mention a rather high fee.

Style

I have selected some of the best features of Januzaj from whoscored.com, in particular, what he can add to the Leicester City team. The Belgium winger can play anywhere across the attacking midfield line. During the last campaign, he involved himself in eight goals in La Liga. Making 28 appearances; although 10 were as a substitute. Passing is an attribute, especially with over 80 per cent success rate. Including searching long balls.

Januzaj’s statistics last term are not exceptional, yet a solid run in a quick, youthful side such as Leicester should improve them. Again, noteworthy is the key passes from a contributor of his style. Dribbling is an asset of his. Along with attracting fouls and cutting inside; this play will complement James Maddison well.

Many media outlets, including Daily Mail, are suggesting the move is plausible. They describe it as: “Leicester explore possibility of signing Manchester United flop Adnan Januzaj from Real Sociedad.” Slightly harsh, as he left United at a very young age with tremendous aptitude and pedigree.

If you are not convinced by the Belgian’s productivity for that amount of money, it is understandable. There are some alternatives below and a glimpse of Januzaj’s recent form.

I am sure everyone also remembers him turning quality Spurs and England full-back Danny Rose inside out before curling in a beauty at the World Cup.  Limited international chances can be attributed to Belgium’s supremely talented attacking choices.

Directly underneath is the Foxes main transfer target’s 2017/18 skills at current team Real Sociedad.

Best XI

A potentially imposing Foxes starting line-up is as follows: Kasper Schmeichel; Ricardo Pereira, Jonny Evans, Harry Maguire, Ben Chilwell; Vicente Iborra, Wilfred Ndidi; Maddison; Demarai Gray, Januzaj; Jamie Vardy. Yes sir, that is impressive.

This prospective transfer gives Leicester City a team which can truly challenge for 7th position in the league. It is a side which could also win a domestic cup. Either could ensure European qualification.