Leicester defender begins contract talks with 18 months remaining

Leicester City usually begin negotiating with players they want to keep, stars or otherwise, when there are around two years left on their deals. We have seen this strategy with many Foxes over recent years; Ricardo Pereira is the latest to reportedly start talks.

Just like fellow Leicester defender Daniel Amartey, who Foxes of Leicester also wrote about on Thursday, Ricardo Pereira is a fan favourite. While Amartey has had to battle for a place, hone his skill set and alter his style and position, Ricardo arrived as though he was a star in the making.

Supporters of the east Midlands team took to the Portuguese instantly due to his affable way and interactions on social media. Then he started playing – and became a hit on Filbert Way almost overnight. This following the approximate €25million agreement for his services.

Performances even improved and Ricardo won himself the Player of the Season award in a dazzling maiden campaign. Arguably more notable is the fact that he was gifted the Players’ Player accolade at the same time. Honour from one’s peers is widely considered the ultimate distinction.

Decline at Leicester City and hopeful return to greatness

Unfortunately in 2020 the 28-year-old suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Subsequent to a prolonged period on the sidelines, Ricardo made his comeback to the adoring Blue Army. Sadly the same standard has not been produced, but the faithful will keep the faith with this special athlete. For now, at least.

The Portugal international apparently has the support and trust of the Leicester City Football Club hierarchy, too. This week it was suggested that Ricardo had begun ‘positive negotiations over a fresh deal’.

It is said that the former Porto fullback only has 18 months remaining on his current contract. Some will question the timing as Ricardo once again has a fitness issue, yet the majority will welcome the news:

"[Ricardo] is closing in on an extension. There have been reports in his native Portugal that Ricardo’s new contract will keep him at the King Power Stadium until 2026. Talks opened before Ricardo’s current injury…Leicestershire Live"