Leicester should sign this unlikely player in summer transfer window

Leicester City has been unable to replace Riyad Mahrez since the Algerian’s departure in 2018. However, Portuguese winger Fabio Vieira may be the player the Foxes have needed.

After Mahrez departed Filbert Way in 2018, Rachid Ghezzal, Ayoze Perez, Ademola Lookman, Marc Albrighton and Cengiz Under have all played on the right wing. But none managed to have the same impact as the 2016 PFA Player of the Year.

While it is difficult to find another Mahrez, it is not impossible. Vieira has the ability to fill the void. And, if given time, he could replicate the Algerian winger’s form that was on full display during his time at City.

The 22-year-old is currently plying his trade for FC Porto and can play as either a central attacking midfielder, or as a right wingman. Viera first showed signs of his potential for Porto’s B side in the second division in Portugal in the 2019/20 season.

Since then, the left-footed wideman continued to show signs of improvement. Not to mention threatening in attack for Porto this season with seven goals and 16 assists in all competitions. According to transfermarkt.com, Viera’s transfer value is €25.00m which would be within the King Power team’s budget once players are sold and would be a great value signing for that price.

Viera’s dribbling ability is superb and his vision is world-class, as backed up by a significant amount of facilitating this season. The UEFA Europa Conference League semi-final highlighted LCFC’s inability to break through a side that sits back to defend.

Viera has the attributes to make a difference in those scenarios. His quick feet and killer passes create chances out of nothing, something that the East Midlands side has lacked in this area for quite some time. The Porto winger is also a strong finisher and is dangerous from the edge of the box.

There are many similarities between Vieira and James Maddison as they have the potential to create chances with moments of magic. If these two were to play alongside one another, then the Foxes would be a very dangerous side.

There is obviously the question around whether or not the Portuguese youth international has what it takes to make the step up to the Premier League. However, at such a young age his potential is limitless and has time to adapt to playing at the top level. If Brendan Rodgers were to sign Vieira and give him time to adjust to the Premier League, then he could develop into one of the leading wingers in the division and have a major impact at KPS.