Leicester: 3 Reasons why Ryan Bertrand is an underrated signing
By Nathan Wong
Cheap and cheerful
Due to the expiration of his contract on July 1st, Leicester City will be able to sign Ryan Bertrand on a free transfer. Although Bertrand will still command a reasonable wage as well as performance-related bonuses, this represents excellent value for money when considering the price of Robin Gosens.
Whilst Bertrand doesn’t offer the same attacking threat as Gosens, saving £30-40m will allow LCFC to invest in other areas, adding greater balance to the side whilst adding sufficient quality to the squad.
How Leicester can consolidate their early business
Getting signings done early is hugely beneficial to team cohesion; allowing new signings to integrate into the side and acclimatise to tactics. Furthermore, avoiding the late deadline-day scramble reduces the risk of Leicester City being held to ransom by clubs, which has happened in years gone by.
A ‘perfect’ transfer window given the circumstances would be the signing of another centre back, as well as a prolific right-winger. One option on the wings could be Stade Rennais’ Jeremy Doku who was electric against Italy in Belgium’s quarter-final tie, recording 8 successful take-ons. Unfortunately for the Foxes, if they are interested in the young Belgian they will face competition. Although LCFC are in a better position to compete than they have ever been.
Related Story. 3 Out-of-contract players the Foxes should sign. light
One sticking point is that Rennes signed Doku for £23m meaning they may be reluctant to sell for an affordable fee. Even so, the financial crisis in French football may necessitate such sales and it’s worth keeping an eye out for whether this story develops over the summer.